A conversation with the Australian Brain Alliance on advancing global neuroscience collaboration
IBI Chair, Dr. Judy Illes, recently hosted a conversation with Dr. Anthony Hannan, to discuss the relationship between the Australian Brain Alliance (ABA) and International Brain Initiative (IBI) in advancing global neuroscience collaboration. Dr. Hannan is the Head of the Epigenetics and Neural Plasticity Group and the Research Co-Lead for the Mental Health Mission at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health at the University of Melbourne. He is Co-Chair of the International Brain Initiative (IBI), Co-Chair of the Australian Brain Alliance (ABA), and a member of the Brain and Mind Committee and Australian Academy of Science (AAS).
Overview of the Australian Brain Alliance (ABA)
Dr. Hannan highlighted the origins and current state of the ABA, co-chaired by Dr. Sarah Cohen-Woods. Drawing parallels with the Canadian Brain Research Strategy, the ABA aims to unify major neuroscience institutes in Australia to enhance engagement in neuroscience research. Key goals include leveraging federal funding and exploring philanthropic options, particularly in the context of Australia's smaller GDP. A significant focus is the establishment of an early to mid-career researcher network, the Brain Science Network, to foster future neuroscience development in Australia. This network seeks to engage young researchers and promote interaction across institutions, aiming for substantial funding for scholarships and fellowships in neuroscience.
“Brain research is at the forefront of modern science and medicine. It is integral in pushing forward discoveries and developing cutting edge methods that have potential to revolutionize not just fundamental research, but also clinical application. To ensure Australia’s ability to make a meaningful impact in this field, significant and sustained investment is both crucial and necessary, and this investment is needed in the people doing the research, as well as the infrastructure.”
— Dr. Sarah Cohen-Woods
Scientific priorities of the ABA
Dr. Hannan outlined the ABA's current attention on the specific foci within neurotechnology as a broader concept, emphasizing the importance of data standards, sharing and governance. The ABA aims to utilize international neuroscience data to enhance Australia's capabilities in data analysis. There is also a strong emphasis on expanding NeuroAI initiatives and strengthening partnerships with the IBI to build human capacity in neuroscience through scholarships and fellowships.
Role of IBI in achieving ABA goals
Dr. Hannan described the IBI as a pivotal player in elevating Australian neuroscience on the international stage. The ABA benefits from global data-sharing initiatives and collaborative efforts with other countries, enhancing the overall impact of neuroscience on human health and productivity.
“The IBI acts as a focal point and conduit for the ABA to participate in the exchange and advancement of ideas within the brain sciences. Through the IBI we are able to make valuable contributions to several key areas, including neuroethical considerations as neurotechnologies advance, and identifying global educational needs for researchers. The IBI provides us a focus and conduit for the sharing and development of growing knowledge.”
— Dr. Sarah Cohen-Woods
Future goals for IBI
As Co-Chair of the IBI, Dr. Hannan envisions the initiative as central to a global movement advocating for brain health and its economic significance. He emphasized the necessity of neuroethics in guiding the integration of new technologies like regenerative AI, aiming to ensure responsible usage before potential abuses occur. Dr. Hannan also stressed the importance of international collaboration in neuroscience, suggesting that scientific cooperation can foster peace and security.
Global Impact and Inclusion
Dr. Hannan underscored the unique opportunity for IBI to include developing countries within the Global South in its initiatives, aiming to enhance global neuroscience capabilities beyond the Global North. He emphasized the need for partnerships with major initiatives to fill existing gaps in neuroscience research and advance collective goals.
Overall, the interview highlighted Dr. Hannan's vision for the future of neuroscience in Australia and globally, and emphasized the crucial roles of collaboration, funding, and ethical considerations in shaping the field.