Graduate Program Awards

Presented to an Outstanding Neuroscience Graduate Student

Named in honor of Dr.Leon Thal, a renowned neuroscientist and leader in Alzheimer's disease research. This award recognizes an exceptional Ph.D. student in neuroscience who has excelled in scientific scholarship in their doctoral research. The student must be in-cadidacy and nearing graduation from the program.

Learn more about Dr. Thal's life and legacy here.

Nomination Materials

1. Letter of nomination by the thesis advisor.
2. Research Summary statement from the student.
3. The student's CV.

Award Recipients

2024 - Sydney Smith & Jess Haley
2023 - Joseph Herdy
2022 - Christian Cazares

Honors NGP Teaching Assistants who exhibit exceptional dedication, support, and mentorship in the classroom and beyond. This award recognizes the contributions of teaching assistants in facilitating learning within the neuroscience graduate coursework at UC San Diego

Nomination Materials

1. The student’s CV
2. Statement from the Student - 500 Words, Can include: 
   1. Description of course (or courses) taught, including primary responsibilities
   2. Description of teaching methods or approach to teaching
   3. List of additional teaching development or training activities
3. Letter of support from course instructor/supervisor

Award Recipients

2024 - Michaela Cullum Doyle
2023 - Cynthia Nyongesa

Honors and recognize transformational, outstanding service/outreach that advances community building  within the Neurosciences Graduate Program at UCSD. Nominees hold leadership positions in NGP committees and affiliated organizations. 

Nomination Materials

1.  Letter of Nomination
2. Leadership Statement 500 Words
3. Student CV

Award Recipients

2024 - Louise Stolz 
2023 - Emily Baltz