The MRC Centre for NeuroDevelopmental Disorders Retreat brought together the staff and students of the Centre for two exciting days of collaborative thinking, focussing on three neurodevelopmental conditions: psychosis, epilepsy and intellectual disability. 

After a warm welcome from Prof Laura Andreae, retreat Chair, the first afternoon began with a fascinating talk from Dr Thomas Pollak about the neuroimmunology of psychosis. The second day was opened by Dr Joel Winston, speaking about spikes as biomarkers for epilepsy, and Dr Sam Cooke delivered the final talk of the retreat, discussing the current knowledge about intellectual disabilities. 

Each talk was followed by discussion in smaller, multidisciplinary groups of staff and students, with the aim of proposing new research projects that would advance current understanding of the neurodevelopmental condition covered. The project ideas were then presented back to the rest of the Centre, inspiring wider group discourse around these important areas of research.

The retreat provides a wonderful opportunity for networking between staff and students of the CNDD, so that fresh perspectives are heard and new collaborative projects may blossom. Beyond the brainstorming sessions, the retreat enabled new friendships and professional relationships to form, with attendees leaving full of delicious food and exciting new ideas. 

As the CNDD’s final retreat, it is a tradition we are sad to see come to an end. The CNDD is incredibly grateful for the many innovative ideas and collaborations it has inspired over the years. Many thanks to the speakers and retreat organisers, and to the venue for hosting us! 

You can take a look at some snaps from the reteat on our social media channels.