Dr. Karen D. Davis

Canada Research Chair in Brain and Behaviour
Tier 2 - January 1, 2001
Health

Research Involves

Observing the workings of the brain under various conditions

Research Relevance

Development of new diagnostic tools and treatments for brain disorders

A Brain with a View

Imagine being able to watch as a living brain processes thought and reacts to its senses. And imagine being able to read a detailed roadmap of the brain that illustrates where memories are stored.

It all sounds incredible and out of this world, but the technology is already being developed—right here in Canada.

Under the direction of Dr. Karen Davis, researchers at the University of Toronto are observing brain activity as it occurs using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The technique can obtain high-resolution real-time images of a living brain as the body undergoes a series of cognitive and sensory challenges.

Functional brain images are recorded as the brain responds to temperature, mild pain, visual or auditory presentations. And the subjects in the lab are awake and alert.

The Brain Imaging Study offers a unique window into the mechanisms of the brain. Using MRI, scientists are developing a detailed map of neurological pathways. Sophisticated software programs provide high-resolution 3-D maps of group and individual test results.

Dr. Davis’ lab has already hosted four graduate students who themselves have made significant contributions to this study. Thanks to this latest infusion of funds, she will be able to offer more space in her lab to the latest crop of postgraduate trainees and extend her research towards clinical studies of chronic pain and other neurological disorders. By receiving this research chair, Dr. Davis can extend her reputation as an innovator in the fields of pain and imaging.

For further information, please contact Dr. Karen D. Davis using the Email contact form or by phone at 416 603-5662