By understanding and manipulating brain connectivity in meaningful ways, we can develop effective treatments for neurological disorders.

Research at the uOttawa Brain and Mind Research Institute

There are 100 trillion connections between neurons in the human brain, grouped together into billions of distinct networks in which brain cells work together at the speed of thought. The brain can also be quite adaptive and malleable (plastic), which provides hope for therapies. However, very little is known about the interconnected webs of cells that form the brain's fundamental architecture.

How do brain cells work together? How does this change as a result of disease? We seek to answer these questions and determine how protective, regenerative and restorative strategies—including pharmacotherapy, gene therapy, exercise and deep brain stimulation—improve brain circuit function in patients with brain disorders. By understanding and manipulating brain connectivity in meaningful ways, we can develop effective treatments for neurological disorders.

The ultimate goal of uOBMRI is to incorporate and represent all brain- and mind-related activities in a cohesive fashion. In consultation with our stakeholders and the uOBMRI Scientific Council, the institute has generated a multiphase plan of action with the initial focus on the following areas of strength and expertise.

Our Members in Action

Research
uOBMRI logo with text that reads "In the news Dr. Jérémie Lefebvre". Featuring a picture of Dr. Lefebvre.
Research

Dr. Jérémie Lefebvre Shares About Cell Diversity in the Brain

Dr. Lefebvre is an associate professor with the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Science.
Research
uOBMRI logo and text that reads "In the news. Jennifer Chandler". Featuring an picture of Jennifer Chandler.
Research

Jennifer Chandler Interviewed in MIT Technology Review

Jennifer Chandler leads the uOBMRI’s research hub on Neuroethics, Law, and Society. She is a Professor of Law in the Faculty of Law at the University …

Clinical care resources

One of the goals of the uOBMRI is to implement fundamental changes in patient care, offering more integrated, personalized treatment plans based on findings from our clinical care research. Given the complexity of the brain and associated neurological disorders, an integrated approach is absolutely necessary to ensure effective research and clinical care delivery. This is of particular importance since it is highly unlikely that answers to brain-related scientific and clinical questions will arise from single individuals or groups working in isolation. The uOBMRI scientific community is therefore working together to link enhanced scientific progress and exceptional clinical care.

Charities

Organizations that may provide additional information include:

Clinics