Since the 1950’s, UBC has been the site of groundbreaking discoveries in understanding, diagnosing and treating a number of brain disorders and diseases. It is also home to Canada’s largest integrated research and treatment facility – the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health.
Today, more than 500 researchers continue to be at the forefront of brain research, pioneering their work around mental health and addictions, dementia, and movement disorders.
Skip to Stories
Discoveries
- 2017: Controversial treatment for MS found to be ineffective
- 2017: Link between vitamin A and Alzheimer’s disease
- 2017: Scientists create mouse that resists addiction
- 2016: Antibiotic restores brain cell communication damaged by Alzheimer’s
- 2015: Regular exercise can reduce risk of dementia
- 2012: Gene linked to Parkinson’s disease found
Key Research Groups
- BC Centre on Substance Use
- Brain, Behaviour & Development
- Centre for Research on Personhood in Dementia
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health
- Dynamic Brain Circuits and Connections in Health and Disease cluster
- Edwin S.H. Leong Healthy Aging Program
- Institute of Mental Health
- Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre
Spotlight
Young people at the centre of the toxic drug poisoning crisis
A new book by UBC’s Dr. Danya Fast traces the experiences of young people who use drugs in Vancouver amidst a public health overdose emergency.
Read more >
UBC researchers launch clinical trial exploring CBD for bipolar depression
The first-of-its-kind clinical trial will explore whether CBD can help manage acute bipolar depression alongside primary courses of treatment.
Read more >
‘Landmark’ study projects 187% increase in people living with dementia in Canada by 2050
New report stresses need to work collaboratively toward equity, diversity and inclusion in dementia research, prevention and care.
Read more >
‘Smart glove’ can boost hand mobility of stroke patients
A new washable wireless smart textile developed at UBC aims to improve patient rehabilitation following a stroke.
Read more >
New process for screening old urine samples reveals previously undetected ‘designer drugs’
UBC researchers have developed a more efficient way of identifying designer drugs circulating in the community.
Read more >
Genetic testing could greatly benefit patients with depression, save health system millions
Pharmacogenomic testing aims to match patients with medications that are more likely to be effective based on an individual’s genetic profile.
Read more >
Why neurons die from brain injury, and how we could save them
New UBC research sheds light on what causes brain cells to die following stroke and traumatic brain injury.
Read more >
New Canadian guideline for treating high-risk drinking, alcohol use disorder
UBC researchers at the BC Centre on Substance Use helped develop the first-ever Canadian guidelines for alcohol use disorder.
Read more >
Depression, anxiety may be among early signs of MS
New UBC research is shedding light on the early stages of MS and could one day support earlier detection and possible intervention.
Read more >
Closing the gap in Alzheimer’s research
UBC researchers are working to increase Asian representation in Alzheimer’s research, improving disease prevention, diagnosis and care.
Read more >