We are thrilled to announce the launch of NeuroAdapt, a €2 million research training programme designed to advance neuroscience research and improve patient care. This initiative, supported by €1 million from the European Commission’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) 2023 COFUND and an additional €1 million from FutureNeuro, is set to train the next generation of neuroscientists.  

Empowering the Next Generation of Neuroscientists

Integrated within our Centre, NeuroAdapt will host 11 postdoctoral researchers from around the world to Ireland, equipping them with the specialised skills needed to advance research into neurological conditions such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and motor neuron disease, along with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions. This programme is designed to address the evolving challenges of brain disease management, pushing the boundaries of current research. 

Cutting-Edge Training

The programme will provide successful applicants with multi-disciplinary training in cutting-edge technologies including gene therapy, high-resolution imaging, precision medicine, biomolecule and gene delivery and digital health. These opportunities will be further enhanced by placements in hospital and industry settings, ensuring that research findings can be effectively translated into practical diagnostics, treatments and devices that improve the lives of those affected by neurological conditions.   

Global Alignment

NeuroAdapt will play a pivotal role in positioning FutureNeuro as a global leader in translational neuroscience, delivering cutting-edge technologies and a highly skilled workforce dedicated to improving clinical practice and patient outcomes. It will complement our extensive research programme embedded in 35 academic and clinical teams across Ireland’s leading academic institutions: RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University of Galway, University College Cork, South East Technological University, Dublin City University, and Maynooth University, as well as specialist hospitals. 

Patient-Centred Research and Real-World Impact

Central to NeuroAdapt is the involvement of people living with neurological conditions. From the outset, all projects will be developed with direct input from patients, ensuring that research remains focused on real-world impact. 

Dr Tobias Engel, the Academic Lead for NeuroAdapt, FutureNeuro Investigator and Senior Lecturer in RCSI Department of Physiology and Medical Physics brings a wealth of experience in coordinating large-scale European training networks, that unite academic, industry and clinical partners, as well as expertise in epilepsy research. He commented: 

“Brain diseases represent one of the most pressing health challenges today, and while we’ve seen an explosion of new treatments—from novel diagnostic devices to more effective drugs and the integration of AI in healthcare—there’s a growing need for researchers who can turn these innovations into optimal patient care. 

“NeuroAdapt is designed to bridge this gap by providing top-tier research training that prepares the next generation of neuroscientists to lead in this rapidly evolving field. This initiative will strengthen Ireland’s position at the forefront of neuroscience research while aligning with global health priorities, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the EU’s Healthier Together initiative.”

Professor Fergal O’Brien, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at RCSI said:

“NeuroAdapt is an exciting step forward for RCSI and FutureNeuro, as it will significantly enhance our capacity to train researchers who are not only skilled in the latest research techniques but are deeply engaged with the needs of patients. This programme is a great example of our commitment to research that has a tangible impact on health outcomes and demonstrates the strength of our collaborative networks.”

Find out more about NeuroAdapt here.