Birkbeck, University of London
Neuropsychological work with the very young: improving the understanding of brain function and cognitive development
Birkbeck’s internationally recognised research investigates one of the increasingly exciting areas of scientific enquiry — the relationship between the mind and the brain. The neural basis of human mental abilities (such as the perception of faces and objects, attention, memory and language) is examined with an emphasis on their development during infancy and childhood. The purpose is to find out how specific brain mechanisms develop to give rise to the cognitive functions that underlie our everyday interactions with the external world and with other people. This research is already helping NHS professionals to diagnose and better treat brain injuries and developmental disorders such as autism, leading to significantly improved outcomes for patients and carers.