The PFN guarantees five years of financial support for admitted PhD students, contingent on satisfactory progress in the program and adherence to all University rules and policies.  Such support includes full payment of tuition and academic fees, a single-person health insurance premium, and living support through a combination of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and graduate research assistantships, depending on students' qualifications and the availability of funds. Base living support for the 2026-27 academic year is $39,140.

Our flexible funding model not only ensures financial stability but also provides valuable professional development opportunities, preparing our graduates for diverse career paths in academia, industry, and beyond. Our comprehensive approach includes:

Fellowships

• Students may receive prestigious university fellowships or competitive extramural fellowships, recognizing their academic excellence and research potential.
• We offer dedicated courses and mentorship to help students successfully apply for a wide range of competitive fellowship opportunities, both within UVA and externally.

Graduate Research Assistantships

• The PFN faculty are exceptionally well-funded, enabling many students to be supported through their advisor's research grants.
• This funding allows students to focus intensively on their thesis work, accelerating their research progress and scientific development.

Teaching Assistantships

• Our students typically teach for two semesters in subject areas that complement their research focus.
• We view teaching experience as an invaluable part of graduate education, offering students the opportunity to:
  • Develop critical communication and leadership skills
  • Deepen their understanding of neuroscience by explaining concepts to others
  • Gain hands-on experience in curriculum development and classroom management
  • Enhance their CVs, particularly beneficial for those considering academic careers

Our flexible funding approach allows us to tailor support to each student's needs and career goals. By combining research, coursework, and teaching experiences, we ensure that PFN graduates are well-rounded, skilled, and prepared for leadership roles in neuroscience.

The guaranteed 5-year support, coupled with our commitment to professional development, sets the PFN apart in its ability to nurture the next generation of neuroscience scholars and leaders. This comprehensive support system allows our students to focus on their research and academic growth, maximizing their potential for success in the program and beyond.