3 answers
Abha
Student
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
1
Question
Updated
967 views
What do I do with a psychology degree when I want to do biology?
What do I do now that I have 3y bachelors in clinical psychology but want to pursue research that better aligns with biology. Eg. Neuroendocrine systems of mice during social behaviour.
I want to pursue neuroscience.
3 answers
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1185
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Abha,
Contrary to what you would think, you are in a much stronger position. Particularly for disciplines like neuroendocrinology, behavioral neuroscience, and biopsychology, a background in clinical psychology offers an additional basis rather than a diversion from neuroscience or biology. Many neuroscientists begin their careers in psychology before moving "downstream" into biological systems.
Practically speaking, what you're doing is a discipline pivot rather than a reset. Studying neurological and hormonal systems in animal models directly relates to your knowledge of behavior, cognition, and mental processes. For instance, psychological theory plays a major role in the design of experiments and the interpretation of results in research on social behavior in mice. You don't need a new identity right now; you need biological depth.
In concrete terms, the next step is to close the skill gap rather than cancel your previous degree. Prioritize learning the fundamentals of molecular biology, neuroanatomy, endocrinology, statistics for biological research, and laboratory methods (e.g., animal care, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, RNA analysis). This can be achieved by post-baccalaureate coursework, a master's program with a neuroscience concentration, or working as a technician or research assistant in a research lab, even if it is initially adjacent.
Make a conscious effort to frame your personal story while applying to neuroscience schools. "I was trained in behavior and clinical frameworks, and now I want to investigate the biological mechanisms underlying them" is your story. Particularly for labs researching neuroendocrine systems, stress, social bonding, or affective behavior, that is an engaging and unified arc.
From a practical perspective, start looking for biology or neuroscience labs whose work truly interests you and get in touch with them right away. Even in a volunteer or temporary position, ask about opportunities to obtain practical experience. Additionally, enhance your academic profile by taking biology courses and, if you can, doing a small independent research project that shows your dedication to the biological side of things.
You do not have to "undo" your degree in psychology. You must explain your transition effectively and add biology on top of it. The intersection of behavior and biology is where neuroscience flourishes, and that's exactly where you are.
Best wishes!
Contrary to what you would think, you are in a much stronger position. Particularly for disciplines like neuroendocrinology, behavioral neuroscience, and biopsychology, a background in clinical psychology offers an additional basis rather than a diversion from neuroscience or biology. Many neuroscientists begin their careers in psychology before moving "downstream" into biological systems.
Practically speaking, what you're doing is a discipline pivot rather than a reset. Studying neurological and hormonal systems in animal models directly relates to your knowledge of behavior, cognition, and mental processes. For instance, psychological theory plays a major role in the design of experiments and the interpretation of results in research on social behavior in mice. You don't need a new identity right now; you need biological depth.
In concrete terms, the next step is to close the skill gap rather than cancel your previous degree. Prioritize learning the fundamentals of molecular biology, neuroanatomy, endocrinology, statistics for biological research, and laboratory methods (e.g., animal care, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, RNA analysis). This can be achieved by post-baccalaureate coursework, a master's program with a neuroscience concentration, or working as a technician or research assistant in a research lab, even if it is initially adjacent.
Make a conscious effort to frame your personal story while applying to neuroscience schools. "I was trained in behavior and clinical frameworks, and now I want to investigate the biological mechanisms underlying them" is your story. Particularly for labs researching neuroendocrine systems, stress, social bonding, or affective behavior, that is an engaging and unified arc.
From a practical perspective, start looking for biology or neuroscience labs whose work truly interests you and get in touch with them right away. Even in a volunteer or temporary position, ask about opportunities to obtain practical experience. Additionally, enhance your academic profile by taking biology courses and, if you can, doing a small independent research project that shows your dedication to the biological side of things.
You do not have to "undo" your degree in psychology. You must explain your transition effectively and add biology on top of it. The intersection of behavior and biology is where neuroscience flourishes, and that's exactly where you are.
Best wishes!
Martha D. Kramer
Corporate Training and Communications
12
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Martha D.’s Answer
You have asked an interesting question about careers that include both psychology and biology, Abha. There are many in research, academia, and industry (see first link below). At the same time, you seemed to answer your own question by mentioning research in neuroscience. There are many opportunities there also (see second link below).
You have chosen an emerging and exciting area of science to pursue, and I wish you much luck.
Indeed.com - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/biology-with-psychology-careers#:~:text=Many%20biological%20psychologists%20work%20in,on%20their%20subspecialty%20and%20employer.
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/neuroscience-jobs/?currentJobId=4327232043&originalSubdomain=in
You have chosen an emerging and exciting area of science to pursue, and I wish you much luck.
Martha D. recommends the following next steps:
Janice Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health
1
Answer
Middletown, Delaware
Updated
Janice’s Answer
Great question. It sounds like your interests might align with a degree in Experimental Psychology or Experimental Neuropsychology might suit?
Exploring the divisions of the American Psychological Association might prove helpful in exploring options; https://www.apadivisions.org.
Exploring the divisions of the American Psychological Association might prove helpful in exploring options; https://www.apadivisions.org.
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