Clinical Neuroscience

The Department of Clinical Neuroscience is a vibrant department with a focus on translational neuroscience.

We are an interdisciplinary team comprising of basic scientists, imaging physicists, psychiatrists and neurologists, who work collaboratively to improve our understanding of common psychiatric and neurological conditions, as well as to better understand the healthy functioning of the nervous system. The Department encompasses both the Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre and the Centre for Dementia Studies.

Our research spans five main areas: Biological Psychiatry, Dementia and Healthy Aging, Imaging, Neurology, and Sensory and Motor Neuroscience, which together underpin our ethos of ‘from bench to bedside’.

We are part of Sussex Neuroscience, a University of Sussex strategic programme that encompasses all neuroscience research across the University, and work closely with the local NHS Trusts (Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust).

Our strengths in research-informed teaching are reflected in our significant contributions to both undergraduate and postgraduate education within the Universities and NHS Trusts, as well as with the development of the highly acclaimed Time for Dementia programme. The Department provides a rich academic environment for the training of both PhD students and Early Career Researchers.

Clinical neuroscience education

From media engagement with the general public and neuroanatomical laboratory classes to training qualified physicians in brain imaging and advanced undergraduate, masters and Ph.D. research supervision, the Department of Clinical Neuroscience at BSMS boasts an extensive range of educational contributions to the medical school, our parent universities, the NHS, and to the regional community.

Our interdisciplinary approach to research shines throughout our teaching provision that considers the mind, the brain, the nervous system, the body's tissues, and imaging technologies, and how these can be united to broaden scientific understanding and improve care provision in development throughout the lifespan, healthy ageing, and neurodivergence, at the intersection of psychiatry, psychology, neurology, radiology, physiology, anatomy, immunology and fundamental neuroscience. Our research-active academics manage key features of BSMS's educational offering, preparing and inspiring the doctors, healthcare practitioners and neuroscientists of tomorrow.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE EDUCATION AT BSMS >

Partners and networks

The Department of Clinical Neuroscience has developed strong collaborations with both parent universities. Our researchers work closely with colleagues from the Schools of Psychology, Life Sciences, and Engineering and Informatics as part of Sussex Neuroscience, as well as with researchers at the University of Brighton.

The Department also has strong links with our local NHS Trusts, which includes Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. As part of our collaborative work with Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, we have established the Centre for Dementia Studies, which works to improve the quality of life for people with dementia.

Imaging research is conducted within the Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre, which is a purpose-built interdisciplinary imaging facility. This state-of-the-art research facility was developed as a joint venture between the Brighton and Sussex Medical School and the University of Sussex.

Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre >

Centre for Dementia Studies >

Sussex Neuroscience >