Challenge

Our vision is to transform medical device-based therapy for brain conditions.

The effects of brain conditions stem from disturbed patterns of activity across specialised networks of nerve cells over specific timescales, from milliseconds to days. Medical devices delivering brain stimulation can target these disturbed neural dynamics with precise timing. Today, the advantages of using devices for therapy are not fully realised, limiting clinical outcomes and applications.

Our challenge is to forge a translational research pathway that empowers the clinical exploitation of neural dynamics by advanced devices to optimally reconfigure the brain for improved patient outcomes.

diagram representing disturbed dynamics on the left, medical devices in the middle, and healthy dynamics on the right

We are meeting this challenge by:

  1. Filling key knowledge gaps in neurobiological mechanisms. We are gaining fundamental new insights into where, when and how healthy and disturbed neural dynamics arise in the brain and are related to behaviour and symptoms.
  2. Identifying novel strategies for restoring healthy neural dynamics. We are generating testable predictions about the optimal strategies and device-control policies needed to manipulate neural dynamics across timescales for therapeutic benefit.
  3. Developing innovative tools for implementing novel brain-stimulation strategies. We are developing the algorithms, software and hardware needed to fuel discovery and translational research. We are pioneering implantable, non-invasive, and wearable devices.
  4. Validating novel device-based solutions. We are testing the efficacy of generalisable candidate solutions and derisking them through generating proof-of-concept. This includes experimental medicine and extends to first-in-human clinical trials.
  5. Embedding a positive, enabling research culture. We are engraining the principles of equality, diversity, inclusion and team science into our activities and governance. We are developing talent to build capacity and empower future leaders.
  6. Galvanising collaborative cross-sector working. We are working with diverse stakeholders for mutual benefits. We are involving and engaging patients, charities and the public. We are collaborating with neurotechnology companies, clinical networks, and regulatory authorities.

Over 14 years, we will unlock the immense potential of harnessing neural dynamics with next-generation neurotechnology to alter the trajectories of brain conditions and improve patient quality of life.