Mission

Advance the understanding of the brain and the nervous system by bringing together scientists of diverse backgrounds, by facilitating the integration of research directed at all levels of biological organization, and by encouraging translational research and the application of new scientific knowledge to develop improved disease treatments and cures.
Provide professional development activities, information, and educational resources for neuroscientists at all stages of their careers, including undergraduates, graduates, and post doctoral fellows, and increase participation of scientists from a diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
Promote public information and general education about the nature of scientific discovery and the results and implications of the latest neuroscience research. Support active and continuing discussions on ethical issues relating to the conduct and outcomes of neuroscience research.
Inform legislators and other policy makers about new scientific knowledge and recent developments in neuroscience research and their implications for public policy, societal benefit, and continued scientific progress.
In addition, the purpose of the Eastern Carolina Chapter is 1) to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and information and ideas between East Carolina-area neuroscientists; and 2) through community outreach, to offer educational resources and opportunities for teachers, students and the public in general.

Membership in the Eastern Carolina Chapter shall be open to:

Any person holding advanced degree(s) residing in the State of North Carolina that conducts basic research or performs clinical and/or medical work in neuroscience or its related fields (Regular Membership).
Any student enrolled in programs at degree-granting institutions of higher education within North Carolina (Student Membership).
Any person interested in the neurosciences but not available for regular or student membership (Affiliate) as defined in the bylaws of SFN.

For more information and application, please click here.

The Neuroscience chapter also assists its members and invited speakers by applying for and obtaining:

Travel grants for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to attend the Society for Neuroscience meeting.
The Grass Traveling Scientist Award, which enables local chapters to host leading neuroscientists at their institutions.
SFN Chapter Grants (from $500 to $2000) that support and encourage chapter activities.
Foundation grants that support chapter activities and host leading neuroscientists.

What's New @ ECCSFN

A 'light switch' in brain illuminates neural networks: Scientists can see cells communicate by flipping a neural light switch
Researchers have combined a range of advanced techniques that enable them to identify which neurons communicate with each other at different times in the rat brain, and in doing so, create the animal's sense of location.
Genetic markers ID second Alzheimer's pathway
Researchers have identified a new set of genetic markers for Alzheimer's disease that point to a second pathway through which the disease develops.
Shift of language function to right hemisphere impedes post-stroke aphasia recovery
In a study designed to differentiate why some stroke patients recover from aphasia and others do not, investigators have found that a compensatory reorganization of language function to right hemispheric brain regions bodes poorly for language recovery. Patients who recovered from aphasia showed a return to normal left-hemispheric language activation patterns.