How do you become a research neurologist?

[abbie-mac]

I'm about to start year 11 and want to be an experimental neurologist. Does anyone know (in relatively simple terms) how I can do that in the UK? What degree must I take and any other sources I can enquire?
Thanks

[DTCwordfan]

good grief, there's an interesting career choice.

I would contact your University of choice and ask them if you can visit.....

I would have thought biochemistry, physiology, statistics, mathematics, chemistry, anatomy or a mix thereof would suffice at BSc level and then go onto a Masters to specialise. Where would be your first choice.

What are you doing at A level?

[chanel5]

Abbie, you might explore the Biomedical Departments of some universities, as this would be an excellent basic degree to begin a careed in neurological science. Or you might want to approach neurology from a psychological point of view, in which case you could take a basic degree in psychology, then go on to specialise postgraduate (Ph.D.)in neuro-psychology. This would incorporate three years of experience at the research level, and would open the door for you to be appointed as an experimental neuro-psychologist either within a university or in some capacity within the NHS. Best wishes and best of luck with your career.

[Rosetta]

As neurology is a branch of medicine, a medical degree may be needed, specialising at post-graduate level. Have you looked at any of the universities' websites or consulted your school for advice?

[Buenchico]

In the relatively short term (after GCSEs) you'll need excellent grades at A-level in Biology, Chemistry and Maths (or possibly Physics) in order to get a university place to study Medicine. That's a 5-year degree course, followed by 2 years relevant 'on the job' training. Then you're ready to start here:
http://careers.bmj.co...w-article.html?id=408

Chris

[abbie-mac]

Thanks guys, I really need to research it because my school is useless. What is the difference between neuro-psychology and research neurologist?

[boxtops]

If you are involved in the research role you will be involved in far more investigative work - often in academic circles - that if you were a practising neurologist.

[abbie-mac]

I realize this, which is why I want to be a research neurologist. I don't know what A-levels I will take as I am not sure what I should take. Maybe biology, chemistry and maths?

[abbie-mac]

And Chanel5, i've found a university (bristol) which does a neuroscience course. Would this be a good starting point?

[Buenchico]

A neurologist is a doctor working in a specialist area (even if he/she then goes into research). You can't become a neurologist without becoming a doctor first.

A neuroscientist studies the nervous system and the way that it inter-relates with other areas of scientific and medical research, including (for example) psychology.

You need to decide which path you want to follow.

Neuroscience is offered (under that name) by the following universities:
Bristol, Central Lancashire, Glasgow, Kings College (London), Leeds, Manchester, Nottingham,St Andrews, Sussex and University College (London)

At Cardiff the relevant course title is Biomedical Sciences (Neuroscience). At Cambridge it's Natural Sciences (Neuroscience). Edinburgh offers Biological Sciences (Neuroscience):
http://www.ucas.com/s...esearch/2012searcheu/
(Check the course requirements for each university. However Biology, Chemistry and Maths provides a sound foundation for many areas of scientific study).

Just a thought though:
Don't even consider taking A-level Maths unless you're REALLY good at the subject. It's far, far harder than GCSE, with even the most able students usually struggling for at least some of the time. (I write from experience: I used to teach A-level Maths!).

Chris