The Open University has a strong presence in the field of Biomedicine, focused within the Biomedical Research Network (BRN), an interdisciplinary Science Research Centre that brings together world-class researchers from the disciplines of Neuroscience, Psychology, Cell & Molecular Biology, Immunology, Medicinal Chemistry and Genetics.
BRN aims to promote internationally-recognised research within three key areas:
- Cellular and Molecular Biomedicine
- Medicinal Chemistry and Diagnostics
- Neuroscience and Behaviour
Our research involves development of novel therapies and diagnostic tools, understanding molecular and cellular processes underlying diseases with significant impact in society, and exploring fundamentals of neurobiology and behaviour.
We approach these key areas of biomedical science by applying an interdisciplinary research strategy, supporting parallel investigations from whole organisms, including humans, to the molecular level, a modus operandi that has delivered acclaimed success on the international stage and is underpinned by our strong academic record. Model experimental systems are established for the study of neuronal structure and development, nervous system damage and repair, biochemical electrophysiological and behavioural aspects of learning memory and attention, immunology and cell biology, ageing at the organismal and cellular levels, and genetic instability. Analytical and chemical synthetic tools are applied in the development of drugs and biomarkers of disease, whilst research in human participants focuses on the study of genetic, biological and cognitive underpinnings of disorders across the lifespan, including autism, ADHD and dementia.
Our research is supported by a wide portfolio of sponsors including BBSRC, MRC, EPSRC, Nuffield, Wellcome Trust, MS Society, EU FP programmes and a number of other charitable and Industrial sources. BRN researchers are involved in numerous collaborations with academic, clinical and commercial partners throughout the world.
Under the leadership of the Director, Dr Ignacio Romero, BRN provides a vibrant research culture that facilitates collaborative alliances across scientific disciplines and nurtures postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers within a supportive academic environment. BRN provides an integrated research support system of laboratories supported by highly skilled managers and technical staff in order to meet our scientific aims:
- to promote internationally-recognised research
- to continue to forge technological and translational development partnerships
- to train the next generation of scientists in our fields