1. Value of an MS Degree in Neuroscience Industry Perspective
Paul McGonigle, Ph.D.
Vice President

2. Background 1982 - 1996 University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
Department of Pharmacology
Wyeth Research
Neuroscience Division
Neurogenix Corporation
PsychoGenics, Inc.

3. Positions for MS Degree Holders
Behavioral Research Associate
Electrophysiology Research Associate
Molecular Biology Research Associate
Bioinformatics Associate
Animal Laboratory Manager

4. Desired Skill Set Laboratory Experience
any experience is desirable – scientific method
relevant experience highly preferred
Understanding of Experimental Design
importance of controls, reference compounds, replication
Basic Data Analysis and Statistics Skills
able to analyze and interpret experimental data
Ability to Read and Understand Scientific Literature
read relevant papers to optimize design and interpret results
Basic Understanding of Pharmacology
dose-response relationship, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics

5. Industry Trends
5-10 yrs ago, BS was preferred to MS in many situations
Now, MS is much preferred over BS in most situations
MS is becoming the entry level degree for many laboratory positions
Ph.D.s are becoming much more difficult to place
Experienced MS researchers preferred over Ph.D. researchers for some laboratory positions

6. Our Experience BS applicants typically take too long to train
MS applicants are more experienced and mature
More independent and ambitious
Advance further and faster
Several have advanced to management positions
Several have gone on to Ph.D. programs

7. Benefits of the MS Degree
Starting salary is typically 10 – 15% higher
Surveys indicate that an MS degree is worth significantly more than a BS in terms of career earnings
Tuition benefits are available at some companies to earn the MS while working
Provides a unique opportunity to experience hands-on high level research to help make an informed career decision

8. PsychoGenics Inc.
Tarrytown, New York