The brain is undoubtedly the most complex organ in our body and analysis of its function requires a large variety of specialisms, such as behavioural analysis, electrophysiological analysis, cellular, molecular and biochemical techniques. While our research group traditionally focussed on behaviour, we have also often included immunohistochemical techniques to assess brain activity and cellular functioning.

In recent years, mainly through the collaboration with Dr Darren Day from the School of Biological Sciences, we have expanded our portfolio to include a variety of additional techniques, such as quantitative PCR, Western blot and primary cell cultures. Recently we also implemented the RNAscope technique. This technique allows us to assess mRNA and proteins within the same brain section with high sensitivity and accuracy.

Several of our projects focus around further developing and assessing the value of specific methodologies.