Brain, Cognition and Mental Health

The Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics is the largest genomics facility at any Australian University. It is comprehensively equipped with the latest generation of next-generation sequencing technology, with single-cell genomics platforms and with high throughput microarray systems. It is funded by the Australian Government as infrastructure of national significance.

Studying cognitive and brain development underlying age-related changes in mental well-being and investigating the impact of social developments. Using novel media and experimental science can promote innovation in prevention and intervention development and inform policy making and mental health literacy and awareness.

Applying world-leading research expertise in psychology, epidemiology, and psychological interventions to investigate the causes, consequences and prevention of cognitive decline, dementia, and common mental disorders in an ageing population. Evaluating interventions to improve older driver safety.

Working with data from clinical trials, observational cohort studies, evidence synthesis and online surveys to develop a holistic understanding of the different risk factors for cognitive decline, and the outcomes of intervention, with a particular emphasis on blood pressure and an overall aim of providing clear guidelines for the protection of brain health across the life-course.

Identifying what neural elements are the first to manifest decaying motivational function in the brain: Pinpointing susceptible neural circuitry allows the design of strategies to support enduring brain function in advanced aged.

There is an unmet medical need for early diagnosis and monitoring of conditions that affect an ageing population, such as diabetic neuropathy. Cross-disciplinary team capable of using the transparent cornea and the accessible tear film to monitor for changes to make these diagnoses early and prevent complications.

Social cognition is the ability to process and understand social signals, as a way to understand other people. Development of tools to assess social cognition in older age and in people who may be suffering from dementia can assist in diagnosis and management of cognitive decline.