The Epilepsy Research Institute recently hosted its second Navigator Symposium, focusing on clinically driven data science and innovative translational solutions in epilepsy. Chaired by Dr Wessel Woldman of the University of Birmingham, alongside Professor Peter Oliver of the MRC Nucleic Acid Therapy Accelerator, the event brought together leading researchers, clinicians and advocates to share insights, discuss breakthroughs and foster collaborations.
What is a Navigator Symposium?
Our Navigator Symposiums are hosted and chaired by Epilepsy Research Institute Fellows. Each symposium focuses on a different theme and covers the latest developments in epilepsy research. Bringing together experts in this way helps to share information and ideas, foster national and international collaborations and spark new insights to help advance research into epilepsy.
What was covered in this symposium?
Held in partnership with N-CODE, the symposium brought together world-leading researchers to discuss pioneering ideas, innovative research techniques and their application to epilepsy. A highlight of the event was a keynote by Dr Viktor Jirsa from the Institute de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix-Marseille Université, who discussed his groundbreaking work on virtual brain models in epilepsy. Dr Jirsa’s ‘Virtual Brain Twin’ project demonstrates a pioneering approach, merging digital twin technology with AI to explore how drugs influence brain activity from the molecular to cognitive level.
The event also featured a powerful personal perspective from Murray Goulder, a member of the Institute’s Shape Network and Task Force for the Enabling Technologies theme, who shared his experiences of living with epilepsy. Murray discussed the transformative impact of technology on managing his condition and enhancing his quality of life. His story, resonated deeply with attendees and was a standout moment of the event.
Other distinguished speakers included Dr Javier Escudero (University of Edinburgh), Dr Anita McGrogan (University of Bath), Dr Stuart Smith (Great Ormond Street Hospital) and Dr Kathryn Bush (Newcastle University), each contributing to a rich dialogue on the role of data science in translational research.
Reflecting on the symposium, Dr Woldman said, “It was fantastic to bring together a diverse range of people with shared interests to discuss various ideas and techniques in data science and translational research. The event sparked many productive conversations, with exciting potential for future collaborations. I look forward to seeing the growth and impact of this dynamic field.”
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