Some of Australia’s and China’s leading neuroscientists are coming together in Melbourne this week to share the latest research on neurodegenerative diseases and mental illness as well as better ways to study the brain.
As part of the Australia–China Symposium on Neuroscience (15–16 October), scientists from both countries will discuss their research on major brain disorders like epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease and mental illness, along with potential treatments.
The symposium will also include an update on the China Brain Project which is part of a global drive to develop new tools, like computer simulations, to understand the brain.
The Australian Academy of Science, the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences have held scientific symposia annually since 2004 in order to build greater research links between China and Australia.
The President of the Australian Academy of Science Professor Andrew Holmes said it was a great opportunity to build a strong connection between the two countries in this vital area.
“Brain and mind disorders are problems for both China and Australia. In Australia, we know these diseases cost us about $20 billion annually,” Professor Holmes said.
“The more knowledge we share internationally the better our chances for developing new treatments and preventative measures,” he said.
ATSE President Dr Alan Finkel said “the human brain is complex beyond measure. The challenge to understand it in health and disease will require international cooperation between talented researchers for many years”
“This symposium will make an important contribution to this effort, adding to our previous collaborations for bilateral and international benefit,” Dr Finkel said.
Spokespeople for the symposium are available for comment. For further information, please contact the Academy’s media officer Bella Counihan 0419 212 219.
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