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Shared resources

Biomedical researchers require a broad spectrum of techniques and instruments — such as statistical programs to analyze research results, microscopes to peer into neurons, and robots to increase research efficiency. The Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center provides its 600+ members access to such sophisticated resources throughout the Harvard community. Each shared resource goes well beyond simple access to equipment. We provide users with invaluable technical and intellectual support, guiding hundreds of Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center members every year to help solve the many puzzles of neurodegenerative diseases.  

Shared resources at the Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center are summarized below, with details at left. 

Advanced technologies

The Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center provides access to MRIs and a full array of powerful microscopes — all key to neurodegenerative research. Similarly, through our Advanced Tissue Research Center, members have ready access to valuable samples (including brain tissue, cells, DNA, etc.) required for neurodegenerative disease research. In all instances, senior staff offer full training and support tailored to the needs of novices and experts alike.   

Clinical Trials Service

Research trials involving patients are the only way to learn if a new treatment has potential. Most researchers lack the resources or expertise to carry out such trials. Our Clinical Trials Service has supported close to 200 early-stage clinical trials, many of which have gone on to attract major government or industry funding for advanced trials. 

Training and education

Since 2001 the Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center has provided over $10 million in fellowships and training awards to talented individuals with real potential for advancing biomedical research. Our goal is to ensure a pipeline of talented scientists committed to curing neurodegenerative disease. We also regularly sponsor seminars, symposia and other important meetings with leading researchers from academia and industry. These meetings generate new research direction, give rise to new collaborations and allow investigators to share their knowledge and insight with other researchers working on these diseases.