13th annual Summer School upholds reputation as ‘exceptional’ and ‘inspiring’

From July 10 – 13 2023, delegates joined virtually or travelled from across the world to The Centre of Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics (CNGG) at the Hadyn Ellis Building to hear from our world-leading experts in the field of genetic and genomic psychiatric and neuroscientific research.

This year’s programme included talks ranging from genetic research, such as Professor George Kirov’s work into Copy Number Variants (CNVs) in neurodevelopmental disorders, to clinical practise.

We were also thrilled to welcome Dr Mathew D Hoskins to speak about new breakthroughs in his research into psychedelics and psychiatry for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

As well as hearing from speakers across the centre and beyond, attendees had the opportunity to tour Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC) and research labs.

Dr Kimberley Kendall and Professor William Davies also provided insight into clinical and scientific careers through workshops which allowed attendees to come together to discuss career pathways and collaborations.

We have already received lots of positive feedback. Thank you very much to Dr Prarthana Poodipedi for sending us the following:

"I had a wonderful four days at the summer school. Everything including the accommodation, food and lectures was very well organised and everyone was extremely helpful.

"As a psychiatrist trainee, my interest and curiosity in neuropsychiatry only deepened after meeting and interacting with inspiring professors and doctors in the field. I also learned so much about upcoming research that could revolutionise the manner in which we perceive and treat mental illness.

"This included the effect of copy number variations on schizophrenia and other mental disorders, the use of brain organoids and pluripotent stem cells in research, psychedelics in mental health, new methods of sequencing and interpreting DNA, and the role of imaging techniques to diagnose and prognose debilitating mental illnesses.

"I particularly loved the talk on reproductive psychiatry given by Professor Arianna Di Florio. She spoke about systemic and sociocultural issues along with various gender differences that have led to various illnesses including Bipolar affective disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder being underdiagnosed and/or inappropriately treated in women (including ovariectomies for PMDD)!

"As a woman of colour in Psychiatry, I was so inspired by the way she beautifully incorporated social issues and psychiatry and truly followed a biopsychosocial model in her research. I will be sure to incorporate these learnings in my practice and research to ensure my patients are treated with the utmost respect, compassion and understanding, irrespective of their gender, sex or race.

"I would recommend the summer school to anyone (clinicians/trainees/researchers) who are curious about neurosciences and would be interested to learn more from some of the best in the field."