NeuroConnect Program - Western Institute for Neuroscience

From start to finish, most neuroscience research takes place in the lab. It could instead begin and end in the community.

Translating neuroscience research into tangible and lasting benefits is accelerated when researchers, community partners, patients, and policymakers are engaged in mutually beneficial and highly inclusive partnerships. The NeuroConnect program aims to adopt a more inclusive research approach that integrates diverse voices and experiences. By catalyzing interdisciplinary research and engaging community at every stage of the research process, NeuroConnect helps accelerate the path from research to results, making a meaningful difference in people's lives and society at large. NeuroConnect is bringing teams together to build interdisciplinary capacity and drive community engagement.

A Commitment to Co-Creation

We are dedicated to ensuring reciprocal relationships with our community partners and to removing barriers for community members to drive, participate and engage in research and access information.

Community Partners

Local community workers from key community organizations will be embedded in the research teams.

Community-Embedded Trainees

We will facilitate lasting relationships between neuroscientists and community partners and will provide opportunities for Western trainees to engage directly with community organizations.

What Benefits can Interdisciplinary Teams gain from this program?

Up to $200,000 per year in funding

For a two-year period (renewable)

Research Officer support

For proposal development

Project Management

Project management support post-award

Grant development support

for large, external funding competitions

In-Kind Staff Support

for community engagement and outreach

Funded NeuroConnect Teams

CareFIT

Information about CareFit.

NeuroConnect Themes

Sustainable Brain Health

As people live longer lives, the rates of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases are on the rise, impacting not only those affected but also their families and communities. Identifying and implementing strategies to promote healthy brain aging and reduce dementia risk is crucial for optimizing cognitive function and enhancing the quality of life for aging Canadians and their families.

Mental Health: Mechanisms, Intersections, and Impacts

Mental health affects the quality of life of all individuals and is fundamental to our well-being. Mental health can affect all areas of daily living, and in turn is affected by a multitude of variables including genetics, physical health, our environments, and psychosocial factors. Neuroscience research plays a vital role in unraveling the biological mechanisms of mental health and its intersection with these other factors, offering insights into possible interventions, protective factors, and areas for policy change to create healthier community outcomes.