Advancing Neuroscience to Improve Lives
The mission of the UNE Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences (CEN) is to inspire collaboration and innovation among those passionate about understanding the nervous system and applying that knowledge to enhance human health and well-being.
With neurological diseases representing major global challenges — such as chronic pain affecting over half of the U.S. population with an estimated indirect economic impact exceeding $100 billion annually — we are committed to advancing research that improves treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Examples of Neuroscience Research at UNE
Opportunities within the Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences
Opportunities for Students
UNE’s undergraduate neuroscience programs prioritize student involvement in research through a cross-disciplinary approach that spans science and liberal arts. Undergraduates can major or minor in neuroscience, join research labs, and participate in outreach through the neuroscience club. Graduate students benefit from UNE’s partnership with the University of Maine’s GSBSE, enabling lab rotations and thesis work. Medical students have access to research fellowships and collaborative education opportunities, while post-doctoral trainees receive personalized mentorship in a supportive research environment.
Opportunities for Faculty
The Center for Excellence in Neuroscience at UNE fosters a diverse research community by actively recruiting, mentoring, and supporting new faculty. It encourages interdisciplinary collaboration with scientists and healthcare professionals across UNE and maintains strong connections with external partners such as Maine Medical Center, Jackson Laboratories, the University of Maine, and the Maine Institute for Human Genetics and Health. Faculty affiliated with the CEN also benefit from access to resources and funding opportunities to advance their research.
2024 BRAIN, BODY, AND WELLNESS FAIR
Opportunities for the Community
The CEN offers several community-focused programs and events to promote STEM education and science literacy. The K–12 Outreach Program connects UNE faculty, professional staff, and students with local schools to spark interest in STEM, supported by partnerships with area businesses. The annual Brain, Body, and Wellness Fair invites the public to explore neuroscience through hands-on activities that raise awareness of brain health and neurological conditions. Launched in summer 2025, our Science Cafés offer informal, conversational events in local spaces to enhance public understanding of science.
Opportunities for Funding
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Center for Pain Research (COBRE)
The Center for Pain Research (COBRE) was established in 2012 through funding from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS). The Center is composed of a group of laboratories within the Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences, which study the neurobiology of chronic pain. There are many opportunities for students in the Center labs. For faculty, this center offers a pilot project program that provides funding for chronic pain research.
Research Cores
The Center also supports two state-of-the-art research facilities, the Behavior Core and the Histology and Imaging Core, which carry out cutting-edge research. The two cores provide expertise and training and use of specialized instrumentation, and both welcome internal and external users.