UTSA researchers take part in second annual systemwide brain health summit

Established in 2017, the UTSA Brain Health Consortium has grown to include more than 80 leading researchers dedicated to unraveling the greatest mysteries of the brain. The organization has been key to elevating awareness of UTSA's brain health research, according to Hsieh, who adds that having a seat at the table of this systemwide summit is representative of the exemplary research taking place across the university.

Hsieh, a member of the summit's planning committee, emphasized that the summit is a space for scientific collaboration and a time to reflect on the purpose behind the research: the pursuit of therapies and cures. A key feature of the gathering is its emphasis on cross-institutional collaboration.

"Across sessions covering trauma, PTSD, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders, and more, collaboration among UT institutions is vital to each research area," Hsieh said. "Providing holistic patient care means addressing all symptoms comprehensively, and the overlap between research topics make these collaborations essential."

McHardy is serving on a panel at 2:15 p.m. tomorrow about neurobiology and pain management. His current work focuses on developing non-opioid therapeutics for pain, an innovative solution to one of the most pressing issues in medicine.

"To be able to have an influence and impact in terms of research and drug discovery is really rewarding," McHardy said. "The summit highlights the potential for expanding our collaborative research opportunities in Texas focused on brain health and pain."

Additionally, UTSA students and post-doctoral students are presenting their research contributions this evening at a poster presentation. They include Kyle Pressley, Stephanie A. Villalon, Erick Olivares, Michael Vasko and Christian Cruz.

State legislators are also attending the summit to share perspectives that can help elevate brain health research through policy, funding and accessibility.