Brain disorders account for more suffering, cost, and long-term care than all other disorders combined. Alabama has high rates of neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease; dementias, including Alzheimer’s, stroke, psychiatric disorders; and neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. Many of these neurological conditions disproportionately affect individuals living in rural areas. The Alabama Life Research Institute has a unique opportunity to lead in human neuroscience.
The mission of the neuroscience theme is to uncover the mechanisms that underlie neurodevelopment, typical and atypical functioning, and disorders. The University has several faculty members who study a wide range of such topics including child development, aging, autism, learning, and addiction. Human neuroscience is interdisciplinary and involves researchers from psychology, biology education, and engineering.
Executive Director: Dr. Firat Soylu