CBRS Hosts MP Valerie Bradford and Brain Research Leaders at CABHI

The Canadian Brain Research Strategy (CBRS) was honoured to host MP Valerie Bradford, Chair of the Standing Committee on Science and Research (SRSR), at the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI) in Toronto to discuss the future of  brain and mental health research in Canada.

The event featured presentations by leading researchers, including: 

  • Dr. Allison Sekuler, President and Chief Scientist, Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI) 
  • Dr. Neil Vasdev, Director, Brain Health Imaging Centre Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) (representing Dr. Aristotle Voineskos, Vice President and Director of the Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute
  • Dr. Don Mabbott, Program Head, Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) 
  • Dr. Doug Crawford, Director, Centre for Integrative and Applied Neuroscience, York University,
  • Dr. Jaideep Bains, Director, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network (UHN).
During the visit, CBRS convened institutional leaders, trainees, research staff, and people with lived experience, showcasing the wide range of roles, perspectives, and career paths within the brain and mental health research ecosystem.

Their insights underscored the need for strategic investment and policy support to unlock the full potential of Canadian brain research.

By fostering dialogue between policymakers and scientists, this briefing allowed MP Bradford to witness firsthand the transformative impact of brain research and its importance in addressing Canada’s aging population and mental health challenges. For researchers, it was an opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, helping bridge the gap between scientific innovation and public policy.

CBRS is grateful to MP Bradford for her leadership on the SRSR Committee and her commitment to championing science and innovation. MP research centre briefings like these are crucial for ensuring brain and mental health research remains a national priority, ultimately improving the lives of Canadians.

These visits are a cornerstone of our advocacy efforts, ensuring that brain and mental health research remains a priority in Canada’s policy agenda while fostering trust and shared insights between policymakers and the research community.