The Grey Matter Project

The Grey Matter Project is a network of high school neuroscience chapters organized and run by the Yale School of Medicine Department of Neurology. The Project’s mission is to promote education and career interest in the neurosciences to teens before higher education and to close the neuroscience/education gap, one neuron at a time. The field of neuroscience is vast, and we aim to foster knowledge, conversations, and a community for students to explore the in-depth and complex world of the nervous system. We aspire to bring a one-of-a-kind program to high school students to kindle a passion for this fascinating field.

The Grey Matter Project was founded by Sreya Devarakonda and Sara Schaefer, MD, MHS. Sreya started the first Neurology Club at Chantilly High School in Chantilly, Virginia. After inviting Dr. Schaefer as a guest lecturer, the two decided to collaborate and create a club structure for anyone, anywhere around the globe. Thus, the Grey Matter Project was born.

By creating the Grey Matter Project, we hope to tackle the intimidation that can accompany a career path in medicine, as well as the “neurophobia” that many students at all levels can feel when confronted with the complexity of these topics. We aim to provide educational resources and opportunities to students of all backgrounds in order to build confidence in and excitement by the neurosciences. By diversifying our lecturers and panelists, students will be exposed to the myriad careers within the medical field and learn how to achieve the medical career of their dreams.

The Yale Department of Neurology provides an annual schedule of events that includes virtual lectures, career panels, and activities across a variety of neuroscience topics. Lectures and career panels are given by neuroscience faculty and providers mostly from Yale School of Medicine and Yale New Haven Hospital. Each month focuses on one specific neuroscience topic. Some months include activities for which the Grey Matter Project provides instructions (videos, handouts), and the activities can be completed at each club’s convenience. The “Structure” section below contains more information regarding the schedule of events. Additional materials of interest such as articles and websites will be provided to club members periodically to enhance their learning and experience.

We encourage all interested students to sign up for our mailing list so they can receive all club communications, event information, resources, and extras. Anyone interested in joining the mailing list must complete the online Member Registration form.

Any high school-aged student can start a local chapter, regardless of association with a high school. Note: This program caters to ONLY high school-aged students. This is not intended for middle schoolers, college students, medical school students, or residents.

The Grey Matter Project has a YouTube channel where some lecture recordings will be uploaded. Additionally, follow us on Instagram for meeting reminders and fun facts, and to keep up to date on other cool neuroscience events and opportunities!