Brain Facts

The Society for Neuroscience is the world’s largest organization of scientistsand physicians dedicated to understanding the brain, spinal cordand peripheral nervous system.Neuroscientists investigate the molecular and cellular levels of thenervous system; the neuronal systems responsible for sensory andmotor function; and the basis of higher order processes, such as cognitionand emotion. This research provides the basis for understandingthe medical fields that are concerned with treating nervous systemdisorders. These medical specialties include neurology, neurosurgery,psychiatry and ophthalmology.Founded in 1970, the Society has grown from 500 charter membersto more than 29,000 members. Regular members are residents of Canada,Mexico and the United States—where more than 100 chapters organizelocal activities. The Society’s membership also includes many scientistsfrom throughout the world, particularly Europe and Asia.The purposes of the Society are to:∫ Advance the understanding of the nervous system by bringing togetherscientists from various backgrounds and by encouraging research in allaspects of neuroscience.∫ Promote education in the neurosciences.∫ Inform the public about the results and implications of new research.The exchange of scientific information occurs at an annual fallmeeting that presents more than 14,000 reports of new scientificfindings and includes more than 25,000 participants. This meeting, thelargest of its kind in the world, is the arena for the presentation of newresults in neuroscience.The Society’s bimonthly journal, The Journal of Neuroscience, containsarticles spanning the entire range of neuroscience research andhas subscribers worldwide. A series of courses, workshops and symposiaheld at the annual meeting promote the education of Societymembers. The Neuroscience Newsletter informs members about Societyactivities.A major mission of the Society is to inform the public about theprogress and benefits of neuroscience research. The Society providesinformation about neuroscience to school teachers and encourages itsmembers to speak to young people about the human brain and nervoussystem.