The NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre is a £100M collaboration between Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust and Oxford University to accelerate healthcare innovation. Renewed in 2013, with a 50% increase in funding, the BRC features major neuroscience research themes including: Cerebrovascular disease and dementia led by Peter Rothwell, Functional Neuroscience and Imaging – led by Peter Brown and the Cognitive Health working Group - chaired by Kia Nobre.
The centre held its third research open day on the 19th May. The event attracted over 600 people including patients, the general public, patient representatives and staff.
The neuroscience stands included displays of transcranial direct current stimulation and prism glasses being investigated as a potential aids to stroke recovery. Interactive exhibits included; methods used to measure pain sensitivity, a demonstration of behavioural tasks used to investigate motor learning and the use of Doppler ultrasound to screen for carotid plaques.
One of the highlights of the day was an eloquent and moving speech by Jonathan Wyatt, a patient from a gene therapy trial, explaining his motivation for taking part in research and the remarkable results of the pilot trial. The event received widespread coverage in the local press and on radio
Visit the BRC Website