Neurosciences and mental health

Research on the workings of the brain and the nervous system at the Sydney Medical School cover a complex span of enquiry from structure to function of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves and muscle, through genetics, biochemistry and physiology to pharmacology and pathology. While our neurophysiologists diagnose human motor control disorders and our clinical neuroscientists investigate and treat the neuromuscular disorders that are a major cause of ongoing disability in childhood, others investigate diseases of the brain and mind, including substance abuse, clinical depression and dementia.

Our researchers demonstrate a wide range of expertise in both basic and clinical science, from the molecule through to systems approaches and on to the diagnosis and management of patients with neurological and psychiatric diseases. Researchers and therapists in all areas work closely to ensure that laboratory discoveries today are translated into real answers for affected patients and their families tomorrow.

Which genes contribute to athletic performance and which ones cause muscular dystrophy and other muscle wasting diseases?

What goes wrong in the forgetful brain?

Can we prevent stroke and treat it when it occurs?

Why do some people suffer bipolar disorder and others schizophrenia?

Why do we experience pain and why do pain killers stop working?

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Latest News

Eyes provide clues to a common cause of stroke
In a groundbreaking study researchers have concluded that evidence of the cause of "lacunar stroke" can be found by looking at the back of a patient's eyes.