Brain and mind research

Uniting fundamental research on the brain and neurological disease with applied sciences in cognition and behaviour

Brain and Mind research represents an area of considerable strength across the Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research (PIHR) and the University as a whole. This theme unites fundamental research on the brain and neurological disease with applied sciences in cognition and behaviour, through to community support for mental and physical health, and experiences of identity, agency, and well-being.

These strands are supported by interdisciplinary and complementary programmes of research and state-of-the-art facilities. The University of Plymouth is strategically positioned to combine contemporary scientific enquiry with a strong connection to people and place, enabling the brain and Mind theme to deliver an effective translational pathway.

Research themes

Broadly, our research falls into three themes:

Brain and mind discovery
Research to provide a deeper understanding of nervous system function and performance, from fundamental molecular neuroscience to psychological and physical measurement of behavioural, cognitive and social function.

Brain and mind translation
Understanding changes and differences in function across the lifespan, by exploring the impact of genetic, epigenetic, developmental and acquired differences between people in good health and those with poor mental health and neurological diseases.

Brain and mind community
focuses on interventions and practice, supporting the development of evidence-based techniques, both in the laboratory and within the wider community, to improve nervous system function, physical and psychological wellbeing, and human interaction.