"It is with great pride that I present the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology’s Annual Review, showcasing another year of remarkable advancements in neuroscience research, translation, and education. This year has reaffirmed our commitment to addressing the most pressing challenges in neurological diseases, while continuing to foster an environment of innovation, collaboration, inclusion and excellence. 
At the core of our achievements is the outstanding work of our researchers, students and professional service staff, whose dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge continues to place the Institute at the forefront of global neuroscience. From groundbreaking discoveries in neurodegeneration, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, neuromuscular diseases and stroke, to the development of cutting-edge neuroimaging techniques, our multidisciplinary diverse teams are making significant strides toward improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of many neurological disorders.
Our collaborative ethos is further strengthened by partnerships across UCL and UCLH, as well as with national and international institutions. These alliances are critical to the translation of scientific breakthroughs into real-world applications, ensuring that our research has a lasting impact on patient care and public health. 
This year, we continue to progress our new site at 256 Grays Inn Road, which brings us closer to realising our vision of a dual-hub model, uniting our world-class facilities at Queen Square with this exciting new space for research and collaboration. We are working with our community to prepare for this change, and we are eager to embrace the expanded opportunities this will bring for fostering innovation and strengthening our partnerships.
However, this year has not been without sorrow. We deeply mourn the loss of our esteemed colleague, Professor Richard Orrell, whose contributions to neurology, particularly in the field of motor neuron disease, were profound and far-reaching. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of neuroscientists.
This year has been notable for the continued expansion of our educational programmes, equipping the next generation of neuroscientists and clinicians with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle the complex challenges of the future. Our students and trainees remain at the heart of our mission, and their success is a testament to the Institute’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering intellectual growth. 
As we reflect on the past year’s accomplishments, I am filled with optimism for the future. The UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology remains dedicated to its mission of improving lives through research, education and clinical care, and I look forward to the year ahead with renewed energy and purpose".
Professor Michael Hanna, Director, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology.
"It’s been a pleasure compiling this annual review, showcasing the Institute’s achievements over the past year. We proudly share it with our community, highlighting the power of collaboration and innovation. We hope it reflects the incredible impact we’re making in translational neuroscience". 
Professor Selina Wray, Deputy Director for Communications and Partnerships, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology.

The Annual Review was launched at the Institute's Annual Address on 24th October 2024. It features interviews with Dr James Sleigh on his laboratory's use of mouse and iPSC models to study neuromuscular diseases; Dr Aitana Sogorb Esteve's research into frontotemporal dementia, and their work with the UK DRI Biomarker Factory; and Professor Robert Brownstone on his lab’s recent work on the role of the spinal cord in Tor1a dystonia, as well as The Tremors vs Tremors project, which created a series of bespoke songs based on the personal narratives, favourite genres and tremor recordings of five people with Parkinson’s

The Review also highlights success in 2024 senior and early career promotions, and the year's activities at the Grays Inn Road site, including the Public Art programme. These achievements are complimented by reports on ION-wide EDI and Sustainability initiatives, Translation and Enterprise, and Educational activities, including a student testimonial from Dr Jiménez’s on his career journey: From Dementia MSc student to researcher and national advisor.

The Annual Review was produced in collaboration with Design Science and is available as an interactive document containing text, images and videos.

Links

Image

  • (PDF)