Southampton area BNA Local Group

Contact your local reps directly:

Rebecca Woods

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Shreya Rajeev

BNA Local Group Student Representative, King's College London

Email:: [email protected]

Ryan Stanyard

BNA Local Group Representative , Keele University

Joan Liu

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Westminster, School of Life Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Laura Odemwingie

BNA Scholar 2023–26

Laura is an MRC DTP PhD Student in Basic & Clinical Neuroscience at King’s College London. She joined King’s after completing her MSci in Medical Biochemistry at the University of Bristol. Her interest in neuroscience first sparked when she completed a summer scholarship placement with the North Bristol NHS Trust Research Foundation on ‘Biomarkers for brain tumours’ with consultant Prof. Kathreena Kurian. She then went on to do her MSci project on synaptic plasticity and spine morphogenesis in Alzheimer’s disease with Dr Jonathan Hanley. Currently, Laura works on mapping the RNA and protein expression patterns of FET proteins at single cell resolution throughout the mouse Central Nervous System and ageing. This will be followed by a comparison in healthy human, FUS-ALS and FET-FTD vulnerable tissue to uncover the contribution of dysfunctional protein homeostasis to disease. This project is co-supervised by Dr Marc-David Ruepp and Dr Caroline Vance in the Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute at King’s and Dr Claire Troakes at the London Neurodegenerative Diseases Brain Bank.

Alice Adriaenssens

BNA Local Group Representative, University College London, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology

Email:: [email protected]

Amina Begum

BNA Scholar 2024–27

Amina is in her final year studying Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience at the University of Westminster. Amina hopes to further pursue her interest in Neuroscience after graduation, with further studies at a master's level, which will enable her to gain greater in-depth knowledge of neurological disorders and translational medicine in neuroscience. Having previously worked as a researcher in clinical trials for two years at the Stress, Psychiatry, and Immunology Lab at King’s College London has helped her to gain extensive research skills and knowledge, and she has recently contributed to scientific publications as a co-author.

Amina has previously also presented at the British Neuroscience Association 2023 Festival of Neuroscience on Science Communication, as part of the editorial team of Inspire the Mind. Amina is passionate about stroke and is excited to further explore in detail on stroke research through this experience with the mentorship and networking opportunities as a BNA Scholar. Amina is also passionate about diversity and inclusion for women in science and academia, in particular within neuroscience.

Paul Downing

BNA Local Group Representative, Bangor University, Cognitive Neuroscience Institute

Email:: [email protected]

Kam Ameen-Ali

BNA Local Group Representative, Teesside University, School of Health & Life Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Emily Sena

Stroke Association Kirby Laing Foundation Senior Non-Clinical Lecturer, University of Edinburgh

Emily Sena is a Stroke Association Kirby Laing Foundation Senior Non-Clinical Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh. She is specialised in the validity of preclinical research. Her interests are in the use of meta-research approaches (research on research) to drive improvements in the validity, transparency and reproducibility of primary research using animal models of human diseases. Her work has informed laboratory practice guidelines, editorial policy and clinical trials design. Emily is the inaugural Editor-in-Chief of BMJ Open Science, and convenor of CAMARADES.

Rohit Kamath

BNA Local Group Student Representative, King's College London

Email:: [email protected]

Viktor Lukacs

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Leeds, School of Biological Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Dervila Glynn

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Leanne McKay

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Glasgow, School of Psychology & Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Spatika Jayaram

BNA Scholar 2024–27

Spatika received her integrated Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in biology from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali, India. She was supported by the INSPIRE Fellowship, and the GE STAR Scholarship, from the Institute of International Education. During her undergraduate degree, she worked at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in India, to investigate resting-state functional connectivity patterns in Schizophrenia patients. She completed her final thesis project at the Indian Institute of Science working on learning and memory formation in the worm species, C. elegans. In 2022, she joined the University of Oxford as a recipient of the Felix Scholarship. She worked on projects investigating neuropharmacology and reward-learning, and preclinical neuroimaging and anxiety.

Spatika is currently a Gates-Cambridge Scholar at the University of Cambridge, working on how the development of the prefrontal cortex gives rise to social behaviours. Her research interests span mood disorders, social behaviour and the moods of poetry. Beyond neuroscience, Spatika is passionate about writing and science outreach and established a nation-wide science magazine initiative between 10 institutes in India. She was also awarded an Outreach Grant by the Society for Experimental Biology, and has written for publications at Oxford and Cambridge.

Tom Ridler

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Exeter, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Freya Knight

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Birmingham

Email:: [email protected]

Susannah Walker

BNA Local Group Representative, Liverpool John Moores University, School of Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

Alex Jones

BNA Local Group Representative, Middlesex University

Email:: [email protected]

Nutthaya Bunmak

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Bristol, School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Morgan Mitchell

BNA Scholar 2023–26

Morgan studied an undergraduate degree in Neuroscience at University of Nottingham and then undertook an MRes degree at the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences at University of Birmingham based in their Motor Control and Rehabilitation group. Her MRes project focused on the use of non invasive brain stimulation techniques (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation/Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation), mental imagery and their interaction with motor learning and associated corticomotor plasticity. After having worked as a Research Assistant here at Oxford, she is now in her first year as a PhD student as part of Prof. Heidi Johansen-Berg's Plasticity Lab based at Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, working on a collaborative project with Dr Melanie Fleming and Prof. Tim Denison from the Institute of Biomedical Engineering investigating the use of Targeted Memory Reactivation (TMR) during sleep as an intervention to boost the memory consolidation processes underlying motor learning for stroke rehabilitation patients.

Morgan is also enthusiastic about Public Engagement - she has been involved in the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging’s play for KS3 pupils as part of the Outreach to schools via the Brains in Banbury 2022 initiative. She will also take part in a Wellcome funded 5-year enrichment project "Football OnThe Brain" in which she will deliver workshops that explore how the brain learns and the relevance this has for football skill development.

Chris Adams

BNA Local Group Representative, Keele University

Email:: [email protected]

Gargi Mandal

BNA Scholar 2022–25

Gargi completed her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science at King’s College London (KCL) in 2021, and she recently completed her Master's in Neuroscience from the same university. At present, she is a PhD student funded by the NIHR BRC Maudsley PhD programme at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience. She is investigating the applicability of neurogenesis as a predictive biomarker for electroconvulsive therapy response in individuals with depression at the Thuret Lab. Gargi previously worked as a research assistant in the Stress, Psychiatry, and Immunology lab at KCL, where she focused on understanding the role of inflammation in affective disorders. She is passionate about understanding and developing better treatment strategies for psychiatric conditions, scientific outreach, and learning more about the public policy landscape regarding mental health support.

Lisa Bryan

Executive Officer, British Neuroscience Association

Vincent Giampietro

BNA Local Group Representative, King's College London, Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Volko Straub

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Leicester, School of Biological Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Marja Main

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Sheila Mashate

BNA Local Group Representative, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust

Email:: [email protected]

Alex Roof

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of York

Email:: [email protected]

Lewis Hotchkiss

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Swansea University, Dementias Platform UK

Email:: [email protected]

Sara Purdy

Independent Trustee, British Institute of Radiology

Sara Purdy is an interim Chief Executive, most recently working for the British Institute of Radiology - the oldest radiological society in the world. The BIR supports those working in radiation oncology and the underlying sciences through education in many forms, including events, webinars and research published in its journals.

With a career starting in scholarly publishing and spanning 30 years, Sara has helped numerous societies and membership organisations navigate the complexities of scholarly publishing, to fulfil their charitable objects while delivering important revenue streams. While working at Elsevier, Sara managed their prestigious behavioural neuroscience books and journal portfolio, attending SfN and IBNS conferences and events.

Sara has significant senior leadership experience from across the charity and private sectors, including roles at Sage, the British Society for Immunology and the National Gallery Company.

Iman Muktar

BNA Scholar 2022–25

Iman undertook her MBiol in Biosciences at Durham University, working on bumblebee brains and investigating the dimorphism of the olfactory organ that processes odours and conspecific pheromones between the different species of Bombus around Durham, UK. Following this degree, she continued to develop her experimental neuroscience skills, securing a 4-month research assistant position to work on a project investigating olfactory coding in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes at the Insect Neuro lab in Durham. She used transgenic mosquitoes to conduct live calcium imaging on olfactory receptor neurons, investigating how they respond to behaviourally repellent compounds. The skills she gained in this role also prepared her for starting her BBSRC NLD DTP PhD studentship, in October 2022. To continue her work on the olfactory coding of larval and adult mosquitoes. This project aims to identify the olfactory receptors and cells that sense pheromone candidates. Anopheles gambiae is malaria-vector that requires pheromone production to reproduce. Understanding the olfaction system in mosquitoes in extremely important to potentially identify novel strategies for vector control.

Elaine Murray

BNA Local Group Representative, Ulster University, School of Biomedical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Andrei Barbanta

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Brunel University of London, Department of Life Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Tara Spires-Jones

Past-President, University of Edinburgh

Professor Tara Spires-Jones, DPhil(Oxon), FMedSci is Director of the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences at the University of Edinburgh. Her research focuses on mechanisms of synapse degeneration in Alzheimer’s disease. She discovered that soluble forms of the pathological proteins amyloid beta and tau contribute to synapse degeneration. Further, her group demonstrated that pathological forms of tau spread through the brain via synaptic connections.

In addition to research, Prof Spires-Jones is passionate about communicating scientific findings to the public; increasing the rigour and reproducibility in translational neuroscience; promoting inclusivity and diversity in science; and supporting career development of neuroscientists.

Yashvi Borisagar

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Reading

Email:: [email protected]

Izzy Turner

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Manchester, MSci Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

Dr Claire Durrant

Co-Editor-in-Chief, BNA Journal

Dr. Durrant, a tenured group leader at the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and an Emerging Leader at the UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, is known internationally for her work in understanding the causes and consequences of synapse loss in neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's.

Her interdisciplinary research team collaborates with clinical, pharmaceutical, and academic partners globally to push the boundaries of neuroscience research. Outside of the lab, Claire is passionate about communicating her work to the public and wider research community. She regularly participates in public engagement through TV, radio, written press and podcast interviews and has been invited to speak on numerous panels and podcasts relating to career progression in dementia research.

Claire’s combined research excellence and commitment to the effective communication of research make her a great addition to the editorial board.

Email:: [email protected]

Charlotte Shepherd

Head of Partnerships & Development, British Neuroscience Association

Charlotte is the team lead on the BNA Training Programme.

Paul Hubbard

BNA Local Group Representative, Newcastle University, School of Medicine

Email:: [email protected]

Tatiana Rosenstock

Senior Principal Scientist in Neuroscience, Sygnature Discovery

Dr Tatiana Rosenstock is a senior neuroscience leader with over 20 years of experience in molecular, cellular, and behavioural neuroscience. She holds a Master and PhD in Pharmacology, post-doctoral training in Neuroscience in Portugal and at MIT (USA), and an MBA Essentials from the London School of Economics.

Her expertise spans neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders—including Schizophrenia, Huntington’s disease, ALS, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s—with research focused on metabolism, biomarkers, epigenetics, microglial biology, and mitochondrial and autophagy dysfunction.

Tatiana has authored more than 40 scientific publications and presented at over 120 international meetings. She has led multidisciplinary research groups, supervised over 20 students, and held key academic roles in ethics, biosecurity, and postgraduate training. She has also managed diverse R&D portfolios and provided scientific support to academic and industry stakeholders. She is also a recipient of awards from the Newton Fund, Ernest Rutherford Fellowship, and NIH.

Rikki Lissaman

BNA Local Group Representative, Royal Holloway, University of London, Department of Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

Qiming (Simon) Yuan

BNA Scholar 2024–27

Qiming, also known as Simon, obtained his BSc in Psychology from Northeast Normal University and his MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience from Beijing Normal University. His Master's project focused on using brain imaging and non-invasive brain stimulation to investigate the neural mechanisms of bilingual language production. In 2022, he joined the Brain, Speech, & Language Research Group led by Prof. Kate Watkins at the Department of Experimental Psychology as a DPhil (PhD) student, funded by the Oxford Clarendon Scholarship and St John’s College, Oxford. His research projects explore the neural mechanisms of bilingualism (and multilingualism), speech production, and perception in healthy adults, aiming to understand how brain networks support successful speech perception and production. Additionally, he investigates how brain structure and function change in individuals who stutter using brain imaging techniques.

Simon also serves as a public engagement ambassador at the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging (WIN). His goals include enhancing understanding of the neuroscience of language, advocating for neurodiversity and language diversity, and supporting individuals with speech and language disorders.

Amol Bhandare

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Warwick, School of Life Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Derek Costello

BNA Local Group Representative, University College Dublin, School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science

Email:: [email protected]

Aisha Islam

BNA Scholar 2021–24

Aisha is currently a Senior Researcher working for Age UK with a focus on influencing UK policy on health and social care inequalities experienced across the ageing population. Aisha completed her PhD at Newcastle University on neuromuscular changes across ageing and PD and completed her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience at the University of Leeds. Her doctoral work has been published in Nature PD and Frontiers in Ageing.

Aisha is also interested in science communication and has worked as a Sub Editor and writer for the BNA Bulletin and Bright Brains Newsletter, published blogs for her research team ‘Brain and Movement’ and Newcastle University EDI, as well as leading Neuroscience public engagement events for Stemettes, the National Media Museum and the Great Yorkshire Show. Her research has also been featured in British Science Week 2021 STEM outreach packs and by the Brilliant Club on International Women’s Day.

As a BNA Scholar, Aisha is particularly interested in addressing socioeconomic inequalities and keen to explore how this can be applied to the teaching and conductance of neuroscientific research. For the BNA Festival 2021, Aisha was an invited panellist to ‘Steps towards decolonising teaching and learning in neuroscience’ and is working on incorporating this at a national level with the BNA. She proposed ideas to enhance the current narrative of advancements within neuroscience in the UK by acknowledging present and historically significant contributions from researchers in geographical locations beyond the West.

Haady (Brendan) Hajar

BNA Scholar 2022–25

Brendan is a recent Neuroscience MSci graduate from the University of Manchester now currently working as a research technician at UCL. Under the supervision of Dr John Gigg, his Master's research project investigated pattern separation deficits in the 3xTgAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease, and whether these deficits were correlated to reduced granule cell neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus. He is currently involved in the breeding and maintenance of large Alzheimer's disease knock-in model colonies, whilst also contributing to running various behavioural tests in aged cohorts of these mice.

Brendan's primary research interest is the pathological role and therapeutic potential of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease-related cognitive decline. He intends to pursue a PhD that allows him to learn essential neuroimmunology research techniques, whilst reinforcing his pre-existing skills in rodent behavioural research.

Abhishek Banerjee

BNA Local Groups Representative, University of Oxford, Department of Pharmacology

Email:: [email protected]

Anna Capstick

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Newcastle University, BSc Biomedical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Iqra Arshad

BNA Scholar 2022–25

Iqra is a third-year PhD student based at Royal Holloway, University of London (RHUL). Supervised by Prof Narender Ramnani (RHUL) and Dr Elisa Ferre (Birkbeck, University of London), her PhD explores how information from the vestibular system is processed in the human and non-human primate brain, and she is also interested in the contributions of the vestibular system to human behaviour and cognition. Methods used to explore this area range from behavioural psychophysics to computational approaches and functional-MRI. She holds it personally important to lead efforts that promote and increase the representation of people from Black and Global Majority (BGM) backgrounds.

Georgia Boothe

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Sheffield, SITraN

Email:: [email protected]

Vasanta Subramanian

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Bath, Department of Life Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Rik Henson

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Trevor Bushell

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Strathclyde, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Llwyd Orton

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Roman Navin

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Middlesex University, BSc Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Luis Zambrano Hernandez

BNA Scholar 2025–28

Luis is a PhD student in neuroscience at the University of Glasgow. His academic journey began in 2016 when he enrolled in a National Certificate program in Social Sciences at South Lanarkshire College. He graduated with a Higher National Diploma three years later. Following that, he obtained a bachelor's degree in applied psychology from Glasgow Caledonian University. During this time, he discovered the neurobiological mechanisms behind human behaviour, which solidified his interest in neuroscience research. He then embarked on a Master's degree in Brain Sciences at the University of Glasgow. The final project of his Master's program provided invaluable research experience, allowing him to navigate the complexities of scientific research while investigating the role of an orphan GPCR receptor in Alzheimer's disease. After graduating, he began corresponding with Dr. Cassandra Sampaio Baptista about the possibility of completing a PhD under her supervision. With her support, he was fortunate to be awarded the James McCune Smith Scholarship, which allowed him to embark on his PhD journey. During my PhD, he will investigate the role of chronic psychological stress in the underlying cellular mechanisms of myelin plasticity and explore how this phenomenon may lead to brain changes that facilitate the onset and maintenance of addictive behaviour.

Anna Verghese

BNA Scholar 2024–27

Anna graduated with a degree in Economics and Neuroscience from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with honors. Through the Interdisciplinary Sustainable LA Grand Challenge (SLAGC) Scholar Program during her undergrad, she worked with Dr. Melissa Sharpe to conduct an independent project on sensory-specific cue associations and the neural learning circuits underlying maladaptive behavior in addiction, culminating in her honors thesis. During her final year, she worked as a lab technician for the Sharpe lab to conduct research on nucleus accumbens dopamine release and its role in learning.

In 2023, she joined the Sharott Group at the University of Oxford as a research assistant to work on projects utilizing high density in vivo electrophysiological recordings with deep brain stimulation in freely behaving rodents. Currently, she is investigating memory and cognitive function, these experiments aim to develop a closed loop stimulation approach with potential clinical applications.

Leveraging her research experience using cutting edge techniques and her unique interdisciplinary background, she intends to answer questions about the fundamental mechanisms of decision making and provide new insights into the relationship between neuropsychiatric disorders and decision making deficits in her PhD.

She is pursuing her DPhil (PhD) in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Oxford as an NIH Oxford Scholar with supervision from Dr. Angela Langdon (NIH), Dr. Andrew Sharott (Oxford), and Dr. Mark Walton (Oxford).

Jade Hall

Senior Science Policy Officer, Royal Society of Biology (RSB)

Leading the RSB’s equality, diversity and inclusion work, Jade works with the RSB’s CEO, board of trustees, committees, staff and member organisations to deliver a portfolio of policy activities. In addition to gaining a PhD in biomechanics and animal welfare science, Jade had enjoyed various career paths, including working as a research technician and a biotechnology research associate. With a strong commitment to professional development, Jade frequently mentors students and early-career researchers through the BioSci Toolkit and the Social Mobility Foundation. Jade also held board-level and EDI advisory experience with the Science Council and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

Maarten Zwart

BNA Local Group Representative, University of St Andrews, School of Psychology and Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Ruth Staras

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Sussex

Email:: [email protected]

Dr Matthew Brown

Research Policy Trustee, Wellcome

Dr Matthew Brown is a research-strategy leader working at the intersection of digital technology and global mental health. He is currently Head of Digital Technology, Mental Health & Life Sciences at Wellcome, where he leads strategic portfolios that accelerate the development, evaluation and responsible adoption of data-driven tools for mental health and the broader life sciences

Trained as a neuroscientist, Matthew holds a DPhil from the University of Oxford and has conducted research across cellular, circuit and cognitive neuroscience, with previous academic posts at Imperial College London and the University of Geneva. He brings this deep scientific grounding to his current work shaping large-scale research investments and collaborative programmes.

At Wellcome, Matthew manages portfolios spanning digital mental-health technologies, foundational neuroscience infrastructure, data access, software, and skills development. His work includes co-designing new models for international neuroscientific collaboration, supporting regulatory guidance for digital mental-health tools, and establishing capacity-building initiatives such as the first African Bioinformatics Institute.

Matthew has extensive experience working across academia, philanthropy, industry and regulation, and currently serves on several advisory and steering boards, including for the Alzheimer’s Disease Data Initiative and the MHRA. He is passionate about strengthening the neuroscience ecosystem through collaboration, open science and inclusive research cultures.

Stephen Montgomery

Professor of Evolutionary Neurobiology and Behaviour, University of Bristol

I am currently Professor of Evolutionary Neurobiology and Behaviour at the School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, where my research group aims to advance our understanding of how brains evolve, shape and are shaped by, behavioural and ecological diversity. Previously, I led our School’s Athena Swan Gold Award application, and our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, I am EDI Champion with the EDI Caucus and a member of the BBSRC EDI Expert Advisory Group.

Sandrine Willaime-Morawek

Education & Professional Development Trustee

Dr. Sandrine Willaime-Morawek is an Associate Professor in Stem Cells and Neurobiology and a Principal Investigator at the University of Southampton.

Bethany Facer

Early Career Researcher Trustee, University of Liverpool

Bethany Facer is currently completing her PhD at the University of Liverpool, where she’s exploring structural brain changes in people newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, using neuroimaging. Alongside her research, she’s passionate about making neuroscience accessible and creating better opportunities for students and early-career researchers to get involved, be heard, and feel supported.
She has developed and delivered public engagement initiatives for ECRs, such as science-comedy nights, and regularly contributes to science podcasts and outreach events. As Early Career & Student Trustee, Beth is keen to strengthen opportunities for ECRs across the UK, helping to make neuroscience more inclusive, visible, and connected.

Duncan Banks

BNA Local Group Representative, the Open University & Cranfield University

Email:: [email protected]

Richard Hulse

BNA Local Group Representative, Nottingham Trent University, School of Science & Technology

Email:: [email protected]

Paul Anastasiades

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Bristol, Bristol Medical School

Email:: [email protected]

Oscar Solis

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of York, Department of Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

Daniel Fulton

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Birmingham, Department of Inflammation and Ageing

Email:: [email protected]

Rachel Corrigan

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Reading

Email:: [email protected]

Joanna Riddoch-Contreras

BNA Local Group Representative, Queen Mary University of London, Blizard Institute

Email:: [email protected]

Jane Zhuk

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Newcastle University, Institute of Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Sarah King

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Sussex

Email:: [email protected]

Madeline Lancaster

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Michael Ashby

Credibility in Neuroscience Chair

Rayyan Zafar

BNA Scholar 2021–24

Rayyan is currently undertaking his PhD at Imperial College after being awarded the Medical Research Council Doctoral Training 3.5 year fellowship (MRC DTP).

As a member of the Centre for Psychedelic Research and Neuropsychopharmacology group, he is working to complete a series of multimodal neuroimaging investigations in addicted populations;

Exploring mesolimbic reward system deficits in Gambling Disorder as assessed with Functional Magnetic resonance Imaging (fMRI)
Investigating the role of the dopamine D3 receptor in alcohol addiction with a pharmacological intervention using D3 receptor antagonism as assessed with PET and MRI
Investigating the potential of psychedelic serotonergic agonists in the treatment of addiction

Rayyan also works as an Honorary Research Assistant for Drug Science (formally the Independent Scientific Committee on Drugs) where he publishes scientific reports as a member of the Medical Cannabis Working Group and the Medical Psychedelic Working Group.

Tamara Wahid

BNA Scholar 2021–24

Tamara is a Trainee Clinical Scientist on the NHS Scientist Training Programme, based at Birmingham Children's Hospital (specialising in Neurophysiology). She is being trained to independently perform different types of EEGs (Electroencephalograms), NCS (Nerve Conduction Studies), and EP (Evoked Potential) tests in a variety of patient settings, such as neonatal care, paediatrics, and intensive care. Simultaneously, she is studying an MSc in Clinical Science at Aston University and conducting an NHS Clinical Research Project. Her project is investigating the utility of qEEG in assisting EEG interpretation in patients with Epileptic-Encephalopathy with Spike-Wave Activation in Sleep. Before joining the STP, she completed a BSc in Neuroscience and took out a year in industry where she had the opportunity to work as a Research Assistant in fascinating fields such as Parkinson’s Disease and Anti NMDA-R Encephalitis. Away from Neuroscience, she enjoys wildlife gardening and baking.

Sidra Fatima

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Middlesex University, BSc Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Fiona Chan

BNA Scholar 2026–29

Fiona Chan is a final-year BSc Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology student at the University of Manchester within the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health. She has previously been a member of the British Neuroscience Association and is delighted to now join the BNA Scholars Programme.

Her final-year research project investigates neuroinflammation following intracerebral haemorrhage using larval zebrafish models, with a focus on the role of microglia and macrophages in haematoma clearance. Her research interests include neuropharmacology, neuroinflammation and the cellular mechanisms underlying neurological disease.

Alongside her studies, Fiona has served as a course representative for two years, and was awarded the Silver Manchester Leadership Award in recognition of her leadership and engagement within the university community. She is also committed to public engagement with science, having led and delivered medical workshops for secondary school students with MCS Projects Ltd., and volunteered with the Volunteering Outreach for Science and Engineering society to run science workshops for primary school students across Greater Manchester. Through these experiences, she has developed a motivation to improve access to science.

Following graduation, Fiona hopes to gain further experience in neuroscience whilst exploring different research pathways before potentially pursuing doctoral study. Through the BNA Scholars Programme, she is looking forward to engaging with the neuroscience community and contributing to making neuroscience more accessible to wider audiences.

Oluwaseyi (Seyi) Jesusanmi

BNA Scholar 2021–24

Oluwaseyi (also known as Seyi) is a 3nd year Neuroscience PhD student at University of Sussex. His current research focuses on investigating the neural basis of ant navigation using spiking neural network simulations. This includes making spiking models of ant brain regions and measuring their navigation capabilities within simulated environments, along with behavioural experiments with ants in the real world. His previous research at the University of Dundee focused around using machine learning to automate experimental processes in behavioural neuroscience; the aim being to make experiments less time-consuming and more reproducible. Seyi has a range of interests including sensory perception/ecology, machine learning, animal behaviour, computational modelling and game engine rendering. Something he greatly enjoys about neuroscience is the interaction between various disciplines and how they can come together to answer important questions. In the future he hopes to gain varied local and international connections, as he finds learning about other people and cultures very inspiring in the context of research. His family is from Nigeria, he was born and raised in the North of England and has always had a deep interest in science, technology and animals.

Arish Mudra Rakshasa-Loots (Chair)

Research Fellow (Hub for Metabolic Psychiatry), University of Edinburgh

My experience spans the liberal arts, HIV healthcare activism, and most recently psychiatric research. I hold a BA in the Liberal Arts from Earlham College (USA) and a PhD in Translational Neuroscience from Edinburgh (UK). My primary research interest is to enable early detection and effective interventions for mental health conditions in marginalised communities, especially people living with HIV. I am a queer brown immigrant, and have spent the last decade living and working in numerous countries across six continents, including leading several projects and networks in support of social justice. A core priority for me is to help dismantle barriers for people from a wide range of backgrounds to access careers in neuroscience.

Julie Williams

President-Elect, University of Cardiff

Prof Julie Williams is a world leader in the genetics of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and former Chief Scientific Advisor to the Welsh Government. She was the founding Centre Director for UK DRI at Cardiff from 2017-2024. With a background in Psychology, Julie obtained her PhD from the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology. She joined University of Wales College of Medicine in 1991 as a Research Assistant, rising to Reader in Neuropsychological Genetics. As a co-lead in global initiatives her group has contributed to the discovery of over 40 susceptibility loci for AD. These findings implicate the role of immunity in disease development and specifically the contribution of microglia. Computational genetics of AD shows it to be a disease of multiple components which together, allow the prediction of those at high risk. Julie’s contribution to the field was recognised with a CBE in 2012. She is also an advocate for women in STEMM, commissioning a report that aimed to address the gender imbalance in science, published in 2016. Julie is also a member of the Council of the Academy of Medical Sciences and their champion in Wales.

Gareth Morris

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Ryan Cunningham

BNA Scholar 2025–28

Ryan is currently pursuing an MRes in Neuroscience at the University of St Andrews, having previously graduated from St Andrews with a BSc (Hons) in Neuroscience. Throughout his studies, he has developed a strong academic foundation across neuroscience, psychology, and biology. His undergraduate research focused on neurogenesis in the early developing central nervous system of Xenopus Laevis tadpoles. Currently, his master's project integrates behavioural and cellular neuroscience, investigating the effects of overtraining on learning and attention set-shifting tasks in rats with medial prefrontal cortex DREADDs.

Ryan’s passion for neuroscience was sparked by his family's experience fostering children from disadvantaged backgrounds, which led to his interest in neurodevelopment. During university, he has further explored his interests in behavioural and cellular neuroscience.

He is also interested in the intersection of neuroscience with oncology and immunology. This interest developed after he was awarded a Wellcome Trust-funded internship at the University of Manchester, where he contributed to research on glioblastoma, vestibular schwannoma, and cerebral malaria.

Beyond his studies, Ryan was elected as the Postgraduate Neuroscience Representative at his university. He also works in several part-time roles, including as an Undergraduate Psychology Mentor and an Admissions Application Reader at the University of St Andrews.

Gabriel Gibson

BNA Scholar 2026–29

Gabriel Gibson is a BBSRC funded PhD student at the University of Nottingham, supervised by Dr. Tobias Bast, Prof. Stephen Jackson, and Dr. Mairi Houlgreave. He previously completed a BSc (Hons) Neuroscience at the University of Lancashire (ULan) with his dissertation project investigating FOXP2 expression in the globus pallidus and amygdala of the BTBR mouse model of autism spectrum disorder. During this time, he also worked as a research intern/assistant investigating anxiolytic and anxiogenic responses to pharmacological agents in D.Melanogaster. He continued his studies at ULan with an MSc by Research, supervised by Dr. Martin Clark, focused on parvalbumin interneuron and peri-neuronal net expression in the dorsal striatum of the BTBR mouse model of ASD, through development and between sexes. These experiences have developed Gabriel's interest in neurodevelopment and action control/decision making through the lens of neurodevelopmental conditions.

His current research involves studying insula contributions to the control of tic-like movements and other behaviours relevant to Gilles de la Tourette syndrome. To investigate this, he will combine manipulations of the insula (via intracerebral drug micro-infusions) with behavioural, electrophysiological, and translational neuroimaging studies in rats. The aim of this research is to reveal insula contributions to movement control and other behaviours relevant to Tourette syndrome, informing the development of new treatments including non-invasive neuromodulation approaches.

Outside of the lab, Gabriel has contributed to various science outreach programmes (including the Lancashire Science Festival, TeenTech, and Pint of Science) to share neuroscience research with the public.

Vassilios Beglopoulos

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Lancashire, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Jess Lonsdale

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Edinburgh

Email:: [email protected]

IfeOluwa Taiwo

BNA Scholar 2022–25

IfeOluwa completed her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience at the University of Edinburgh. While studying at the University of Edinburgh, she contributed to ongoing research in characterising potential genes involved in ciliary motility in a Drosophila model at the Jarman Lab, and also developed a keen interest for statistical modelling and research reproducibility.

Ife recently worked with Elsevier as a Managing Editor Intern and is currently pursuing work experience in data science. Ife is passionate about early outreach and is thrilled to be a part of the 2022 BNA scholars' cohort.

Suzan Elsheikh

BNA Scholar 2026–29

Suzan Elsheikh is a BBSRC NEEDL-funded PhD researcher at Teesside University exploring how healthy ageing influences the molecular and cellular processes that support memory. She completed her MSc in Biomedical Sciences in 2022 at Teesside University before working for nearly two years as a Research Assistant at the National Horizons Centre, where she investigated molecular mechanisms involved in Parkinson’s disease, Dementia with Lewy bodies, and Alzheimer’s disease. She now applies her experience to study age-related changes in memory pathways. Suzan aims to build a research theme focused on linking biomarkers and memory in healthy ageing and neurodegenerative diseases.

Cal Shearer

BNA Scholar 2022–25

Cal completed their BA in Psychology and Linguistics at the University of Oxford and was then accepted onto the 1+3 MSc and DPhil in Neuroscience Programme, funded by the Department of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford.

During their MSc, Cal worked on modelling the geometry of neural network representations formed during a multi-context categorisation task. For their second project, they investigated hippocampal-cortical interactions during inference and post-learning sleep using a combination of multichannel extracellular recordings and calcium imaging in mice.

Cal then worked towards their DPhil, continuing work on this area, and combining it with analyses of human behaviour. This project was co-supervised by Professor Jill O'Reilly, Department of Experimental Psychology, and Professor David Dupret and Dr Helen Barron in the MRC Brain Network Dynamics Unit at the University of Oxford.

Cal tragically passed away in 2024, and is remembered fondly by their fellow BNA Scholars.

Joern Steinert

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre

Email:: [email protected]

Fiona Parker

Marketing & Communications Manager, British Neuroscience Association

A marketing professional with over 20 years’ experience, Fiona brings corporate expertise to the charity sector, helping socially positive organisations grow and thrive. Fiona specialises in marketing strategy, lifestyle marketing and digital communications, combining creative thinking with a results-driven approach.

After studying Economics at the University of Sussex, Fiona built her career in financial services with OneFamily, AIG and American Express before moving into the not-for-profit sector when she started her family. Since then, Fiona has supported inspiring causes – from refugee initiatives to music therapy organisations – and found real satisfaction in helping them make a difference.

Vera Bowerman

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Westminster

Email:: [email protected]

Sandrine Willaime-Morawek

Education and Professional Development Trustee, University of Southampton

Dr Sandrine Willaime-Morawek is Associate Professor in Stem Cells and Neurobiology at the University of Southampton, where she leads research into how brain development and function are influenced by external factors such as maternal diet, and how stem cells can be used to model neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Her work bridges basic science with clinical and industry applications, and she plays a key role in postgraduate education as Director of the Graduate School in the Faculty of Medicine.

As Education and Professional Development Trustee for the BNA, Dr Willaime-Morawek brings her extensive experience in neuroscience research and training to support the development of educational initiatives and career pathways for neuroscientists at all stages.

Rucha Joshi

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Manchester, PhD Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Rui Gonçalves

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Northumbria University, School of Geography and Natural Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Jess Down

BNA Scholar 2023–26

Jess is currently studying for an MSc in Pharmacology at University of Oxford. Prior to this, she completed her BSc in Biology at the Open University. Her research interests include investigating the effects of drugs on neural circuits and their use in treating mental illnesses.

Jess is also interested in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease, having volunteered in a dementia care home. Through her undergraduate studies and neuroscience seminars, she has developed a further interest in understanding the association between amyloid plaques and Alzheimer's. She looks forward to developing these interests through her Master's degree and further studies. Jess intends to pursue a PhD after her MSc, where she will further explore neuropharmacological drug developments. She is keen to continue her outreach, leveraging the opportunities provided by being a BNA Scholar.

Ryan Stanyard

BNA Local Group Representative, Aston University

Email:: [email protected]

Sarah King

Honorary Secretary, University of Sussex

Sarah is a molecular neuroscientist in the Biological and Clinical Neuroscience group in the School of Psychology and a member of Sussex Neuroscience. She obtained her BSc in Biology at the University of Bristol, followed by an MSc in Molecular Genetics and a PhD in Neuroscience at the University of Sussex. Sarah then went to Yale University where she worked as a postdoctoral associate in the Molecular Psychiatry Department for 7 years, before returning to a lecturership at Sussex. She was promoted to Reader in 2014.

Bethany Facer

Early Career Researcher Trustee, University of Liverpool

Bethany Facer is a PhD student at the University of Liverpool.

Bethany's research focuses on neuroimaging in disease populations, he current project investigates imaging alterations in herpes simplex virus encephalitis and their associations with inflammatory markers. She is also a member of the neuroimaging working group for the COVID Clinical Neuroscience Study (COVID-CNS), analyzing data on SARS-CoV-2 induced movement disorders.

Beyond the lab, Bethany is an enthusiastic science communicator, leading the BNA2025 Public programme and reaching the UK final of FameLab in 2024.

Roman Navin

BNA Scholar 2026–29

Roman is currently in his final year studying BSc Neuroscience at Middlesex University. Through his time there, he's developed a distinct interest in drug development, for both neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. He plans to further such interests by undertaking MSc Translational Neuroscience at Imperial College, aiming to develop the relevant skills to undertake doctoral studies.

Louise Tratt

Head of Meetings & Events, British Neuroscience Association

Louise is an award-winning Events Manager, with over nineteen years experience in the neuroscience and life science sectors. She leads the BNA’s events portfolio, delivering impactful in-person and digital programmes, developing training initiatives and driving engagement across the neuroscience community and its partners. Louise drives event legacy and sustainability initiatives at the BNA.

Arish Mudra Rakshasa-Loots

BNA Scholar 2023–26

Arish (he/him) is a neuroscientist and liberal arts scholar. He was born and raised in Ghaziabad, India, but has since spent many years drifting across the continents. Arish's overarching goal is to help improve mental health outcomes in marginalised communities, especially people living with HIV. He is particularly interested in understanding the role of physiological processes (such as immune or metabolic dysfunction) and socioeconomic marginalisation in the risk for mental health conditions. Arish is also interested in the development and validation of culturally-inclusive mental health screening tools.

Arish holds a BA in Liberal Arts from Earlham College (USA) and a PhD in Translational Neuroscience from the University of Edinburgh (UK). His research has been funded by, among others, the Wellcome Trust, the South African MRC Unit on Genomics of Brain Disorders, and the Harold Hyam Wingate Foundation.

Arish is also strongly passionate about social justice, and its somewhat more corporatised sibling, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). He works as an EDI Consultant and has extensive practical experience in informing and driving EDI-related initiatives within higher education institutions across the US and the UK. Arish’s EDI work was awarded the prestigious Diversity Prize by the ALBA and FENS-Kavli Networks in 2023.

Talitha Kerrigan

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Exeter, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Carl Hodgetts

BNA Local Group Representative, Royal Holloway, University of London, Department of Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

Kavishini Apasamy

BNA Scholar 2023–26

Kavishini is a third-year PhD student at Royal Holloway, University of London, supervised by Dr Carl Hodgetts and Prof. Narender Ramnani. After completing her BSc in Psychology, she embarked on a PhD that explore a topic that is close to her interests: how the brain might be interconnected and how these brain connections might be impacted during normal ageing or pathology. Kavishini's PhD explores this topic closely by studying the connection between the hippocampus and the cerebellum, in the context of spatial navigation in humans.

After completing her first study, she gained novel insight about the organisation of the hippocampal-cerebellar connection in humans. Building on this, she is currently using using fMRI methods to explore how human hippocampal-cerebellar connection might support spatial navigation in humans. In future studies, she hopes to using fiber tractography to delineate how the hippocampus and cerebellum might be anatomically connected. Beyond her research, she is interested in understanding this more closely in clinical populations such as Alzheimer’s Disease patients, and deepening her study in neurodegenerative disorders.

Narender Ramnani

President, Royal Holloway UoL

Professor Narender Ramnani is a Professor of Neuroscience and Vice Dean for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway.

Narender's research focuses on understanding brain systems and the mechanisms behind human behaviour, particularly the interactions between the frontal lobe and cerebellar plasticity. His work explores how these processes support cognitive and motor learning, using techniques such as functional MRI, eye tracking, and behavioral methods.

In addition to research, Prof Ramnani is passionate about research policy and sits on the UK Gov Parliamentary and Scientific Committee and Advance HE’s Race Equality Charter Governance Committee.

Stacey Bedwell

BNA Local Group Representative, King's College London, Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

Justin Andrushko

BNA Local Group Representative, Northumbria University, Sport and Exercise Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Jackie Hunter

Chief Executive Officer, OI Pharmapartners Ltd

Professor Jackie Hunter CBE is currently CEO of OI Pharmapartners Ltd, Board Chair of Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst and AStar Board member, Singapore. Jackie has over thirty years of experience in the bioscience research sector, working across academia and industry, including leading neurology and gastrointestinal drug discovery and early clinical development for GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). Jackie was also Chief Executive of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), and is passionate about EDI and research culture.

Trevor Bushell

Treasurer, University of Strathclyde

Trevor Bushell studied Pharmacology at the University of Glasgow, which got him interested in neuroscience and how brain function can be modulated by GPCRs. This interest continued in his PhD at the University of Bristol looking at the effects of novel metabotropic glutamate receptor agonists and antagonists on neuronal function.

Then, having obtained a Wellcome Trust International Travelling Fellowship, Trevor worked at the University of Chicago for 3 years and returned to work at Imperial College London in January 2000. He gained his first academic position at the University of Strathclyde in 2002, with his current research interests based on astrocytes, neuroinflammation and their role in CNS disorders. Trevor has been involved in BNA governance on and off for over 10 years.

Esra Tahir

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Westminster

Email:: [email protected]

Neddy Kareha

BNA Scholar 2025–28

Neddy graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Neuroscience, with her dissertation exploring how heparin interactions with Apolipoprotein isoforms (ε2, ε3, ε4) affect the clearance of amyloid-beta in Alzheimer’s disease. This foundational experience led to two Research Assistant roles at the University of Oxford (Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics), where she gained expertise in live-cell imaging, flow cytometry, and molecular biology techniques.

Beyond the lab, she served as Communications Officer for Oxford’s Neuroscience Society (2022/23) and later revived and co-hosted the CortexCast podcast alongside Ritika Mukherji & Katy Willard, interviewing leading neuroscientists on cutting-edge techniques, challenges in the field, and the thought processes shaping modern neuroscience.

Her growing interest in systems neuroscience led her to intern at Julia Harris’s Lab (Sainsbury Wellcome Centre, UCL), where she contributed to a project exploring how sleep/wake activity in mice influences synaptic plasticity in the piriform cortex.

Looking ahead, Neddy aims to pursue a PhD integrating in-vivo electrophysiology, high-resolution microscopy, and computational modelling to explore the intricate relationship between neural circuit activity and memory consolidation. By bridging molecular, cellular, and circuit-level analyses, she hopes to uncover fundamental insights into how synaptic plasticity shapes cognition and behaviour.

Candy Rowe

Professor of Animal Behaviour and Cognition, Dean of Research Culture and Strategy, Newcastle University

I am Professor of Animal Behaviour and Cognition and Dean of Research Culture and Strategy at Newcastle University. My expertise lie in animal behaviour and cognition, with particularly interests in how cognitive processes influence the evolution of animal communication and coloration, and how we can use cognition and behaviour to study animal emotion and improve animal welfare. I currently work 2 days a week as Dean of Research Culture and Strategy for the university. Prior to this, I have been Chair of NU Women (our staff network for women across the institution), and Director of EDI for my Faculty, where I led a team that achieved our first faculty-wide Athena SWAN Silver Award. I am also Co-Chair of the University's 'For Families' project to make the University more family friendly, and co-lead a Wellcome Trust funded project to build an EDI Toolkit for research leaders.

Demi Brizee

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Oxford, St Peter's College

Email:: [email protected]

Nick Irving

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences

Email:: [email protected]

Laura Ajram

Chief Executive, British Neuroscience Association

Laura studied Pharmacology at King’s College London (including a year in industry with GlaxoSmithKline) before completing her PhD at the Institute for Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience on the topic of ‘the Neuropharmacology of Autism Spectrum Disorders’.

In 2021 Laura was awarded the ‘ELRIG Early Career Impact Award’ for making a ‘significant impact in the drug discovery community’, and in 2022, a prestigious Fellowship to the British Pharmacological Society in recognition of her ongoing contribution to the sector.

Laura has worked across NHS, charity, academic and pharmaceutical research settings to develop strategic cross-sector partnerships and accelerate neuroscience drug discovery efforts in mental health, dementia and motor neurone disease.

Laura is currently Chief Executive of the British Neuroscience Association, where she is responsible for delivering the vision, mission and strategy of the BNA and it’s subsidiary company, BNA Events Ltd.

Ana Dorrego-Rivas

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Maryam Haq

BNA Scholar 2025–28

Maryam is a second-year PhD student at Birkbeck, University of London, specializing in Vestibular Neuroscience. Her research focuses on how gravity influences human behaviour, with a particular interest in combining neuroscience techniques with space research methods. So far, her work has explored the impact of altered gravity on perceptual experiences. In her most recent project, she demonstrated changes in cortical excitability under lab-controlled simulated altered gravity mimicking conditions similar to spaceflight. Currently, Maryam is the Team Lead for a project supported by the European Space Agency (ESA) called V-STARS (Vestibular Stochastic Techniques for Adaptive Responses in Spaceflight). The project investigates how artificial vestibular stimulation affects adaptation to spaceflight. Beyond her research, Maryam is a committee member of the Student European Low Gravity Association (SELGRA), where she advocates for increasing diversity and inclusion within the space sector. She is passionate about driving greater representation of women in both the space industry and neuroscience.

Jana Abdelrahman

Marketing & Communications Assistant, British Neuroscience Association

I study Media Communications at the University of the West of England, Bristol and I have a strong interest in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation, and I’m excited to develop my skills further during my placement.

Karina Piotrowska

BNA Scholar 2025–28

Karina’s interest in neuroscience first started during her Laidlaw Scholarship, where she investigated the role of methylphenidate on locomotion in Drosophila within the lab of Dr. Vincent Croset at Durham University. Following two summers in this lab, Karina decided to continue her work in Drosophila neurogenetics, starting her MSci project at Durham University within the same group. There, she worked on the role of pre- and post-synaptic dopamine transport in memory, using behavioural and functional imaging approaches. During this time, she also served as the President and former Outreach Officer of the Durham University Neuroscience Society (DUNE), where she helped organize the annual Neuroscience North-East conferences.

Next October, Karina will join the lab of Professor Scott Waddell to start her DPhil in Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics as a Clarendon Scholar. There, her research will explore the neural correlates of maladaptive reward-seeking in Drosophila. Ultimately, Karina aims to understand the fundamental molecular mechanisms underlying memory and addiction. Beyond research, Karina is committed to outreach efforts supporting individuals with substance use disorders, including volunteering with Caritas Radom and organizing events to raise awareness for addiction.

Sara Annunziata

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Middlesex University, BSc Psychology with Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Gernot Riedel

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Sandra Marinescu

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Warwick

Email:: [email protected]

Deepanvita Koppada

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Westminster

Email:: [email protected]

Alexis Archer

Local Group Student Representative, University of Dundee, BSc Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Dominic West

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Sussex, School of Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

Tony Alocious

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Imperial, School of Medicine, NeuroSoc

Email:: [email protected]

Angela Bithell

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Reading, School of Pharmacy

Email:: [email protected]

Ethlyn (Evie) Lloyd-Morris

BNA Scholar 2021–24

Ethlyn, also known as Evie, is currently a second-year PhD student on the Medical Research Council's MRes-PhD programme at King's College London. Before starting her PhD, she obtained a BA in Experimental Psychology from the University of Oxford and an MSc in Neuroscience from King’s College London. She also spent nearly 2 years working as a Research Assistant at the Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, developing assays for Parkinson’s disease drug discovery. Evie’s PhD project investigates the links between mitochondrial transport, synaptic cargo trafficking, and synaptic integrity during ageing. Key methods she uses in this project include live-cell imaging using confocal microscopy and behavioural assays. She enjoys studying the cellular and molecular underpinnings of brain dysfunction and hopes to develop this passion beyond her PhD.

Sarah Carpanini

BNA Local Group Representative, UK DRI, Cardiff University, Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute

Email:: [email protected]

Adrianna Bezak

Events Assistant, British Neuroscience Association

Adrianna is a Neuroscience graduate from Aston University with a focus on computational and cognitive neuroscience. Her research explored deep learning models for epileptic seizure detection. At the British Neuroscience Association, she supports the coordination of events that connect and inspire the neuroscience community. She’s passionate about science communication, sustainability, and creating inclusive, engaging experiences.

Ailie McWhinnie

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biosciences DTP PhD Programme

Email:: [email protected]

Ana Mateu Álvaro

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Glasgow, Integrative Neuroscience MSc

Email:: [email protected]

Senith Fernando

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Queen Mary University of London

Email:: [email protected]

Alsadeg Bilal

BNA Scholar 2026–29

Alsadeg Bilal is a CRUK-funded MB-PhD candidate at the University of Edinburgh, based in the Brennan Lab within the Translational Neurosurgery Division. His research focuses on interrogating the cancer–neuro–immune axis in glioma, with particular emphasis on human-relevant experimental systems. Alongside his doctoral work, Alsadeg is a member of the Edinburgh Human Brain Tissue Cluster, where he contributes to the development of living human tissue platforms to study neurological disease. His research has led to awards, presentations, and publications. Alsadeg is also a co-founder and trustee of the Scottish Universities Neurological Society, where he works with students, clinicians, and researchers to expand access to high-quality training and teaching in neurological research across Scotland.

Owen Peters

BNA Local Group Representative, UK DRI, Cardiff University, Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute

Email:: [email protected]

Dr Kate Baker

Co-Editor-in-Chief, BNA Journal

Dr Kate Baker is a Programme Leader Track at the MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, where she leads the Genomic Disorders and Cognitive Development programme. She is also an Honorary Consultant in Clinical Genetics at Cambridge University Hospital, and an affiliate PI of the Academic Department of Medical Genetics. Prior to this she completed her medical and research training at Oxford, UCL and Cambridge.

Kate also currently serves on the Epilepsy Research UK and Cerebra Scientific Advisory Committees, the Cambrige NIHR BioResource's Scientific Advisory Board, and the International Rare Diseases Research Consortium.

Email:: [email protected]

Kratika Mujmer

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Bristol, School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Bethany Facer

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Liverpool

Email:: [email protected]

Kate Furtado

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Middlesex University, BSc Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Dayne Beccano-Kelly

Meetings Trustee, University of Cardiff

Dr Dayne Beccano-Kelly’s research focuses on synaptic changes that contribute to the earliest stages and progression of neurodegeneration. After completing a BSc and PhD (in Biochemistry and Electrophysiology in Alzheimer’s respectively) at the University of Leeds, he undertook postdoctoral work at the University of Dundee and the University of British Columbia, focusing on synaptic biology in Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s. He began a Parkinson’s UK Career Development Fellowship at the University of Oxford in 2015, incorporating stem cell technology into his work. In 2021, Dr Beccano-Kelly received the prestigious Future Leaders Fellowship from UK Research & Innovation, joining the UK DRI as a Group Leader.

Oliver Rowley

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Keele University

Email:: [email protected]

Sahar Uppal

BNA Scholar 2024–27

Sahar is currently a master's student at Imperial College London, studying for an MRes in Experimental Neuroscience. She recently graduated with a BSc in neuroscience from the University of Warwick where she also worked as an undergraduate researcher in Professor Dale's lab. During this time, Sahar investigated the properties of connexins 46 and 50, using techniques such as tissue culture and electrophysiology. She has also completed an internship at Cardiff University in Professor Kidd's lab, funded by the BNA Exchange Grant. Using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and imaging on post-mortem tissue, she explored pathological differences between men and women with and without Alzheimer's disease and depression. These experiences reinforced her desire to pursue research in neuropathology, Sahar hopes to further develop her skillset during her time at Imperial and pursue a PhD in the future.

Faisal Mushtaq

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Isabella Vainieri

BNA Local Group Representative, Royal Holloway, University of London, Department of Psychology

Email:: [email protected]

TBC

Independent Trustee, TBC

John Gigg

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Volko Straub

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Leicester, School of Biological Sciences

Hannah Botfield

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Birmingham, Department of Inflammation and Ageing

Email:: [email protected]

Rosie McDonald-Hill

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Oxford

Email:: [email protected]

Ana Gonzalez Jorge

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Middlesex University, BSc Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Vasanta Subramanian

Reader, Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath

I am a Biochemist and my research focuses on unravelling the molecular mechanisms in neuro-developmental and neurodegenerative disorders using rodent, fish and stem cell derived models. I use classical biochemistry and cell biology approaches in combination with cutting edge technologies such as gene editing and expansion microscopy. I had been the EDI representative on the BNA’s C and C previously and I have a deep and long standing interests in EDI. Outside of my research, I am a keen photographer, have travelled widely and very interested in cooking.

Naana Owusu-Amoah

BNA Scholar 2022–25

Naana is a research technician at the University of Nottingham, researching diabetes-induced kidney failure and Alport Syndrome at the Biodiscovery Institute. She obtained her MSc in Neuroscience at the University of Nottingham in 2021. As part of her Master’s, she did a yearlong placement at the Queensland Brain Institute studying mild traumatic brain injury and functional recovery using fMRI, DTI and T2 structural imaging. Naana’s research interests include the neurobiology of addiction and trauma, as well as psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder and anxiety. She is generally passionate about behavioural neuroscience. As a BNA Scholar, Naana is very excited about the opportunity to inspire more people from underrepresented demographics to pursue a career in neuroscience. and has had the opportunity to attend conferences such as FENS and present a poster.

Laura Andreae

Professor of Developmental Neuroscience, King’s College London

Laura Andreae studied medicine at Cambridge and UCL. She did her PhD in developmental neurobiology at King's College London followed by postdoctoral research on plasticity (NIMR, London) and synaptic vesicle cycling (KCL). She set up her own lab at King's at the end of 2013 focusing on synapse and circuit development in health and in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders. She has made many contributions to EDI in neuroscience, including helping to create the BNA Scholars programme, was Chair of the ALBA Network (2022-23) and received the Louise Hanson Marshall Special Recognition Award in 2024 from the Society for Neuroscience for contributions to mentoring women in neuroscience.

Kaitlyn Hair

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Olivia Kowalczyk

Credibility Advisory Board Member

Annie Chan

BNA Local Group Representative, Brunel University of London, Department of Life Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Dayne Beccano-Kelly

BNA Local Group Representative, UK DRI, Cardiff University, Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute

Email:: [email protected]

Aisha Khan

BNA Local Group Student Representative, Middlesex University

Email:: [email protected]

Yasir Widatalla

BNA Scholar 2024–27

Dr Yasir, a medical doctor, currently serves as a Research Assistant at the Dementia Platform UK, University of Cambridge. Originating from Sudan, he completed his medical degree at Al-Neelain University before being awarded the prestigious Chevening scholarship for the 2022/23 academic year. This scholarship facilitated his pursuit of an MSc in Clinical Neuroscience at UCL, where his research focused on the electrophysiology and behavioural patterns in mice during seizures and spreading depolarization.

Dr Yasir's current research revolves around neuroimaging in dementia patients, utilizing a range of techniques including fMRI, EEG, PET, and MEG. Beyond his scientific endeavours, he is a passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion within the neuroscience community, emphasizing the importance of academic access for individuals with disabilities. He has been involved in various initiatives promoting higher education opportunities for disabled individuals.

Looking ahead, Dr Yasir aims to undergo neurology training within the NHS, specializing in neurophysiology. He is also committed to bridging the gap between research and clinical application in neuroscience, planning to continue his work as a clinical researcher. This dual focus on clinical practice and research embodies his dedication to advancing the field of neuroscience and improving patient care.

Margret (Maggie) Kadembo

BNA Scholar 2021–24

Margret, also referred to as Maggie, has recently started her new role as a Marketing Assistant for Novartis UK. Maggie’s role of a marketing assistant within the Haematology department involves creating materials to disseminate information about treatments that have been developed to treat rare blood diseases to a variety of audiences.

Maggie’s academic background started with an undergraduate degree in Neuroscience (BSc) at the University of Bristol. Maggie was enrolled in the Opportunity Bristol Scholarship programme which funded her postgraduate studies at the University of Bristol. Maggie's postgraduate degree project focused on studying the effects of a new Ketamine derivative on the N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors located in the hippocampus. Maggie graduated with a Master's by research in Physiology and Pharmacology in February 2023. During her academic studies she worked as an on-campus processing operative in 2020 to assist students and staff with COVID-19 testing. Furthermore, Maggie gained experience as Biology lecturer at a further education institution following her postgraduate degree completion.

As a recipient of the BNA Scholar title, Maggie has participated in the BNA Festival of Neuroscience 2021 where she presented a pre-registration poster based on her Master's degree research. In the future, Margret hopes to have a role in making science accessible to all people regardless of their background. Maggie is passionate about raising awareness of Neuroscience research and developments, particularly across the African continent.

Ryan McGrath

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Salford, School of Health and Society

Email:: [email protected]

Dipa Begum

BNA Scholar 2023–26

Dipa is a PhD student in a Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council doctoral programme at University College London. Dipa has joined the Perinatal Brain Repair Group and her PhD is looking at formulating novel nanocarrier treatments for treating neonatal neurodegeneration. Dipa’s research utilises molecular and behavioural techniques to investigate the application of novel therapies in neonatal hypoxia-ischemia to determine successful delivery to areas of neurodegeneration in the brain. This interdisciplinary research bridges aspects of pharmaceutics and fundamental neuroscience by providing a translational approach to neonatal neurodegeneration therapeutics.

Before her PhD, Dipa worked as a Research Scientist with a Cancer Research Group at the Royal Marsden Hospital with an honorary appointment with the Institute of Cancer Research. Now, at UCL, Dipa is the Lead Research Student Representative and an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Representative for her institute.

Stephanie Koch

BNA Local Group Representative, University College London, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology

Email:: [email protected]

Ben Carre

BNA Scholar 2026–29

Ben has secured a place on the Precision Medicine Doctoral Training Programme (iCASE studentship), starting in September 2026, at the University of Edinburgh in Prof. Nathalie Rochefort’s lab, where he is currently working as a research assistant, aiding with data collection of head-fixed mice in a virtual environment, and developing a preprocessing pipeline for automated cell segmentation with Cellpose for calcium imaging data. His PhD will focus on the cellular and circuit-level mechanisms that underpin impaired visual processing in a mouse model of SYNGAP1-related disorders, which include autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities and epilepsy. In this PhD, he is especially excited to be using a high resolution, minimally invasive imaging technique (hair-thin microendoscopes, developed by DeepEn) to record and manipulate deep brain areas in vivo, such as the locus coeruleus, which have been inaccessible to more conventional imaging techniques.

Ben graduated from the University of Bristol with a BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Sciences and from the University of Edinburgh with an MSc in Human Cognitive Neuropsychology. He won the Highly Commended Dissertation Award from the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences for his MSc thesis, supervised by Dr Freddy Kamps, which investigated the neural basis of visually guided navigation using human fMRI data.

John Huxter

Associate Director and Cognition Lead, Transpharmation

John Huxter is Associate Director and Cognition Lead at Transpharmation, and is CAB's industry representative. John has had more than 25 years of neuroscience experience in both academia and industry, and across diverse therapeutic areas including psychiatric disorders, chronic pain, and neurodegeneration. With a background in both behaviour and electrophysiology (UCL, University of Bristol, Oxford’s MRC Analytical Neuropharmacology Unit), he has led biomarker discovery and assay development efforts at both Pfizer and Eli Lilly before joining Transpharmation in 2020. John is passionate about the translational potential for preclinical neuroscience, and works closely with the Transpharmation teams in the UK, Ireland, Poland and Canada to explore new opportunities for drug discovery and collaboration.

Fabien Naneix

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Aberdeen, Rowett Institute

Email:: [email protected]

Charlie Wiltshire

BNA Local Group Representative, Bangor University, Cognitive Neuroscience Institute

Email:: [email protected]

Hafsah Khan

BNA Local Group Student Representative, University of Greater Manchester

Email:: [email protected]

Talitha Kerrigan

Local Groups Coordinator, University of Exeter

Dr. Talitha Kerrigan is a Research Fellow at the University of Exeter.

Dr. Kerrigan is dedicated to advancing the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to potential therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's.

Talitha's research focuses on the dynamic role of astrocyte-secreted apolipoprotein E4 in Alzheimer's disease, using induced pluripotent stem cells from donor patients. She is also investigating the role of microglia in Alzheimer's disease, particularly the mechanisms of amyloid beta clearance.

Dominika Biel

BNA Scholar 2026–29

Dominika is currently completing her BSc in Biochemistry at Royal Holloway, investigating the antidepressant potential of the psychoplastogen Psilocybin, through a systematic review and meta-analysis dissertation project. Her research interest lies within molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neuroplasticity to better understand how maladaptive circuitry contributes to the occurrence of mental disorders.

Previously working as a student intern at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Lancaster lab), her research focused on generating cerebral organoids from engineered human pluripotent stem cells to investigate the efficacy of a silencing-resistant expression construct. This project contributed to the progression of disease modelling through a 3D model of human brain development.

Beyond academics, her commitment to psychiatric wellbeing extends through volunteering and part-time roles that focus on community support, acting as the current School Representative (Life Sciences & the Environment).

Dominika is looking forward to undertaking an MPhil in Biological Sciences, joining the Ren Lab (MRC LMB, Neurobiology division) this October, embedding her research focus within serotonergic circuitry.

Ishwarjeet (Ish) Dhillon

BNA Scholar 2025–28

Ishwarjeet (Ish) obtained his MChem in Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry (with International Placement) in 2023 from the University of Warwick. For his Masters project, he synthesised and characterised adenine- & ribose-loaded hydrogels to investigate their potential as a novel therapeutic to mitigate damage induced by stroke injury. He then began studying on the 1 + 3 MSc-PhD Analytical Science Centre for Doctoral Training Programme at Warwick. During his MSc in Molecular Analytical Science, he completed 2 mini projects. The second one involved investigating the sites of localisation of pollution-relevant iron oxide nanoparticles in glioblastoma cells, as a preliminary understanding of the interactions between nanoparticulate matter and the brain. This has led him to his PhD project, the current working title being “investigating the relationship between particulate matter air pollution exposure and Alzheimer’s disease dementia”. He is using cellular biology methods to investigate cellular exposure of iron oxides in in vitro cell models, with future plans to incorporate work with post-mortem brain tissues. Ish’s propensity for neuroscience is driven by his fascination with the human brain and its complexities, particularly how it behaves during neurodegeneration.

Faissal Sharif

BNA Scholar 2023–26

Faissal Sharif obtained a BSc in Biomedical Sciences at Maastricht University in the Netherlands with a semester abroad at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. As a visiting scholar at the University of California, Irvine, he investigated novel biomarkers for Alzheimer’s Disease. He then completed his MSc in Translational Neuroscience at Imperial College London while researching the effect of psilocybin on EEG power, signal diversity (i.e. entropy) as well as psychological outcomes at the Centre for Psychedelic Research. As part of the R&D team of a neurotechnology startup and life science consultant, he has worked at the intersection between neuroscience, technology and consumer health.

In 2022, he joined the Tan Lab at the MRC BNDU to investigate novel non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) applications targeting psychiatric symptoms present in a variety of affective and neurological disorders. Beyond potential new transdiagnostic treatments using neurotechnology, Faissal is interested in neuronal underpinnings of affective processing, anhedonia and apathy.

Faissal has received numerous fellowships, from the Medical Research Council (MRC), the Foundation of German Economy (SDW), the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Deutschlandstiftung Integration (DSI) and others. He is co-founder of Corpus Curiosum, an initiative for early-career researchers to promote critical thinking in Neuroscience.

Cherelle Emery

BNA Scholar 2025–28

Cherelle joined the Cerebrovascular & Dementia Research Group at the University of Bristol as a PhD student in 2024, funded by a Bristol Medical School Scholarship. Prior to her PhD, she completed her undergraduate degree in Biology (BSc) at the University of Bristol before carrying on her studies with a MSc in Molecular Neuroscience.

Her research is centred on understanding how pro-angiogenic signalling contributes to the vascular dysfunction observed in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. She uses immunofluorescent staining of human post-mortem brain tissue along with an in vitro 3D co-culture model to quantitatively measure changes in angiogenic response to Alzheimer’s conditions. The long-term aim of her research is to repurpose existing anti-angiogenic therapeutics to rescue the observed dysfunction. She is passionate about translating mechanistic understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases into effective therapies.

Rana Fetit

BNA Scholar 2021–24

Rana completed her PhD in Translational Neuroscience at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland after which she worked as a post-doctoral research scientist at the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences (CDBS) in Edinburgh, Scotland and the Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Glasgow, Scotland. Currently, Rana is a post-doctoral research fellow at the Institute for Regeneration and Repair (IRR), University of Edinburgh, Scotland. Rana is interested in modelling human diseases using stem cells and 3D-organoid models. To date, her research work investigated the how large genetic deletions contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders using cerebral organoids as a tool to recapitulate and study the early stages of brain development.

In her post-doc, Rana used 3D-organoids to model human cancers and their interactions with immune cells using immune-organoid co-cultures. Currently, she uses human-derived embryonic stem cells and transcriptomic data analysis to explore remyelination in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Multiple Sclerosis As part of her PhD programme, Rana also took part in pre-arranged NHS clinic visits to hospitals and psychiatric wards to gain a better understanding of conditions and disorders. Based on these visits, she has produced a series of artwork which were exhibited in the Brain Awareness week: Mad Hatter Grey Matter Festival, 2018 and Fusion: Art-neuroscience show and tell at the university of Edinburgh. Rana is also keen on promoting science to young children. She volunteered in several public engagement events and workshops, and published her own scientific children's book. In addition to her College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine Neuroscience studentship, Rana has also received the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship awarded to overseas PhD students covering differences between EU and international tuition fees.

Dani Wijesinghe

Membership & Communities Manager, British Neuroscience Association

Having originally received their BSc in Biochemistry (University of Bristol, 2017), Dani has since gathered a decade of experience across early years education, psychoanalysis, philosophy of the biosciences, and community and trade union organising.

Still based in Bristol, Dani is currently Membership & Communities Manager of the BNA, where they are responsible for ensuring the best opportunities for the membership to grow their careers, develop their skills, and become actively involved in their organisation in order to make impactful collective interventions on the things that matter most to them – especially via the BNA Local Groups.

In addition, Dani is the staff lead for the BNA Scholars Programme – the BNA's flagship Equity, Diversity and Inclusion scheme to support career development among underrepresented groups in neuroscience – and for two of the organisation's governance bodies: the Early Career Researcher Advisory Board and the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board.

Jamie Johnston

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Leeds, School of Biomedical Sciences

Email:: [email protected]

Harry Potter

BNA Local Group Representative, University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience

Email:: [email protected]

Misbah Fayaz

BNA Scholar 2024–27

Misbah recently graduated with a degree in Neuroscience from the University of Bristol, after transitioning from a career working with children and young people in Bristol and Birmingham. As a mature student with a background in education—enrichment engagement, educational facilitation, and private biology tutoring—her academic journey was enriched by diverse experiences. Alongside her studies, she is also a mother to a 9-year-old.

Currently, Misbah is working in science communication and public engagement, aiming to make neuroscience accessible to everyone. She actively collaborates with organisations such as Sport Birmingham to advocate for mental health awareness and serve as a certified Mental Health Champion, promoting well-being and mental health support within my community. Misbah is particularly passionate about addressing the roots of mental health stigma in underserved communities, working to break down barriers to mental health care, education and enrichment.

This year, Misbah is also gaining clinical experience to enhance her practical skills, with the goal of applying to the Scientific Training Programme (STP) next year to specialise in neuroimmunology.

In addition, she has co-founded Future Pages CIC, a Bristol-based organisation supporting children, young people, and families with neurodivergence, particularly from racially minoritised communities. Through this initiative, she advocates for greater awareness and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals.

Maternal health is a key research interest of Misbah's, especially the changes in cognition, behaviour, and physiology during pregnancy and parenthood. She is focused on bridging healthcare gaps for women, particularly mothers, by exploring the connection between maternal mental health, neuroimmunology, and child well-being.

Sara Chaudhury

BNA Local Group Student Representative, King's College London

Email:: [email protected]

Don't see a local rep listed for your own institution or department? Why not become one yourself! Contact one of the reps listed above to get involved.