A large part of what OBI does involves story-telling, making research accessible, and creating a strong sense of community across the neuroscience landscape. OBI is focused on making Ontario a world leader in brain research, commercialization, and care. And since Ontario was already home to top-notch neuroscience researchers and facilities long before OBI was founded, its mission has been to get diverse groups working together in new ways that were never before possible.
With over 250 researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, and industry partners involved in OBI’s Integrated Discovery programs, the organization has much to showcase. This fall, OBI will embark on a special partnership with the Ontario Science Centre (OSC) to share some of its unique stories and present a larger-than-life picture of the organ that defines us. Since 1969, the provincial establishment has been inspiring a lifelong journey of curiosity in its visitors through its interactive environment and encouragement of dialogue on science and technology.
As one in three Canadians will develop a brain disorder in their lifetime, it is important that everyone understands the ways they may affect individuals and others close to them. Throughout OBI’s involvement at the OSC, knowledge will be shared about the disorders studied and how the programs carry out their research. Multiple perspectives will be explored as OBI’s integrated and collaborative approach is inclusive of researchers, clinicians, industry, and patients. The disorders that will be highlighted by information from OBI’s research programs will include depression, neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy.
From November, 2014 – March, 2015, OSC and OBI will be pairing their strengths and resources to shine a light on the organ that governs everything that makes us who we are, from our five senses, to our emotions, thoughts, movements, and even consciousness and self-awareness. With OBI as the official knowledge sponsor, OSC will bring its visitors a travelling exhibit originally produced by the American Museum of Natural History and its creative partners: Parque de las Ciencias, Granada, Spain; Guangdong Science Center, Guangzhou, China; Comune di Milano, Department of Culture, Italy; and Codice, Idee per la cultura, Torino, Italia.
Brain: The Inside Story, began in 2010 with the aim of illustrating to the public what it is that makes the brain so special—according to the exhibit curators it’s “an essential view on the vehicle for all of that makes us human.” Visitors will take a glimpse into how the human brain works by becoming a part of hands-on exhibits that present the latest in neuroscience research and technology through immersive multimedia experiences, art installations, and remarkable models. Brain: The Inside Storyhighlights themes including how the brain processes senses, emotions, thoughts, external experiences, and how modern technology can change how the human brain functions. Specifically it will span the five following themes: the sensing brain; your emotional brain; your thinking brain; your changing brain; and your 21st century brain. It will also draw attention to neuroscience and brain disorders and provide a unique look at OBI’s Integrated Discovery programs and the impressive work being carried out by clinicians, researchers and neuro-entrepreneurs in Ontario. It is OBI’s hope that this partnership will raise awareness and understanding about brain disorders and brain research among the public of Ontario.
We hope to see you there!
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