New Department of Neuroscience Name, Interim Leadership Announced

November 2, 2026
Dr. Louise McCullough In-Lab photo

Effective Nov. 1, the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy will become the Department of Neuroscience, a name that better reflects its role as McGovern Medical School’s home for basic neuroscience research and education. Approved by The University of Texas System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the new name recognizes the department’s longstanding excellence in advancing discovery, training future scientists and fostering collaboration.

Also effective Nov. 1, Louise D. McCullough, MD, PhD, will serve as interim chair while a national search is conducted for the department’s next chair. Dr. McCullough is executive vice dean for research at McGovern Medical School, vice president for research for UTHealth Houston Neurosciences and holder of the UTHealth Houston Distinguished Chair in Research.