FAU is building a vibrant neuroscience ecosystem, comprising cutting-edge research, distinguished faculty and students, and pipe-line programs for early exposure to STEM education. Along its trajectory as a hub for brain health in South Florida, the Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute has flourished with the support of research partners, dedicated philanthropists and community supporters.
A $1 million gift to FAU’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute from the Palm Health Foundation is launching a new Program in Computational Brain Science and Health (PCBSH). Awarded through Palm Health Foundation’s Brain Health Innovation Fund, the gift funds new technologies, treatments, resources and educational tools to advance brain health in the community.
While this transformative gift will establish the PCBSH, it will also attract distinguished neuroscientists and accelerate FAU Stiles- Nicholson Brain Institute’s drive toward a new era of neuroscience research, education and community engagement. Nicholson and Palm Health are pacesetters for their early philanthropic support of FAU’s neuroscience programs.
“This phenomenal opportunity will showcase Palm Beach County as a leader in advanced neuroscience research that can enhance the lives of our citizens and the health of our communities, bringing hope to those diagnosed with brain health challenges,” said Randy D. Blakely, Ph.D., executive director, FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute.
Additionally, the gift supports four graduate fellowships in the program per year and funds data-driven faculty pilot research projects. Researchers aim to understand the underlying causes and treatments of various brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and depression, among others, that benefit from computational approaches.
“The foundation’s support of the Program in Computational Brain Science and Health will ignite additional innovation in research, education and community engagement in the brain health field, and will inspire those beyond,” said Patrick McNamara, president and CEO of Palm Health Foundation.
Palm Health Foundation is committed to fostering partnerships among philanthropists, brain science, community members and care settings that will lead to local and national impacts.
“This is a remarkable time for neuroscience. For the first time, computer speeds, big data sciences and optical technologies have advanced to the point where meaningful big data brain discoveries are possible. The next decade of discovery belongs to neuroscience, and I am incredibly proud to partner with FAU to realize our joint vision,” said David J.S. Nicholson, chairman and founder of the Stiles Nicholson Foundation.
To learn how the Transend Tomorrow: The Campaign for Florida Atlantic University is making Palm Beach County a national leader in brain health innovation and cutting-edge research, visit transcendtomorrow.fau.edu.
