About Adrian M. Owen

Recruited to The University of Western Ontario in 2010, Dr. Adrian Owen,
Canada Excellence Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience and Imaging, is
addressing one of the most challenging topics in clinical medicine– residual brain
function in patients who are non-responsive after suffering a severe brain injury.

Building on his earlier, groundbreaking discoveries, Owen will test new theoretical
models and use functional neuroimaging (fMRI) approaches to detect and measure
activity in brain-injured patients who appear to be entirely vegetative. He will
also develop new brain-computer interfaces that will allow these patients to
communicate with the outside world and will expand their possible choices for
therapy. These pioneering techniques offer a new window into the consciousness of some brain-injured patients.

As a Canada Excellence Research Chair, Owen will also study the cognitive deficits
(problems in perceiving, thinking, reasoning and remembering) in patients suffering
from neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, Alzheimer’s, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Drawing on existing expertise at The University of Western Ontario in genetics, cognitive neuroscience, neurology, and brain imaging, Owen will explore the nature and causes of these eurodegenerative diseases, with the goal of improving their early detection and treatment.

Owen’s work provides a solid foundation for future leading-edge research at Western in fMRI. His research program encourages links between neuroscientists, biomedical engineers and clinicians, and provides a myriad of new opportunities
for both research and industry. Moreover, his work will improve health care delivery for brain-injured patients across Canada, affecting diagnosis and clinical care, medical ethics, and medical and legal decision-making about life after severe brain injury.