World-leading mental health research centre becomes Cardiff University Centre

The Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics (CNGG), established in 2009, was the first MRC centre in Wales and is considered a centre of excellence for the UK. In this time, it has made significant advances in understanding some of the causes of psychiatric, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.

Director of the Centre, Professor James Walters said: "The Centre has been at the forefront of landmark discoveries in neuropsychiatric genetics over the last decade, providing important insights into mental health conditions and dementia.

Professor Walters took up the CNGG directorship in late 2019 following a decade of discovery under Professor Sir Michael Owen.

Much of the Centre’s research has centred on identifying genetic risk factors for disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Centre scientists also pioneered studies of the genetic overlap between disorders which has important implications for the way we diagnose mental illness and have identified novel areas of biology as potential targets for new treatments.

The Centre has published more than 1,900 papers and has more than 70 active collaborations with researchers across the world.

Landmark discoveries

Professor Walters said: “The CNGG will continue to invest in the brilliant staff and resources in Cardiff to lead international genetic research and to use the knowledge gained from this research to improve the lives of those with mental health and neurological conditions."

Showcase of CNGG research

Watch the CNGG Research Showcase

From 1 December 2022, the Centre will be known as the Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics. A launch and celebration to mark the transition is to be held in early 2023.