Research Frontiers – What Are They ?
The term ‘frontier research’ reflects a new understanding of basic research. On one hand it denotes that basic research in science and technology is of critical importance to economic and social welfare. And on the other that research at and beyond the frontiers of understanding is an intrinsically risky venture, progressing in new and the most exciting research areas and is characterized by the absence of disciplinary boundaries.
Neurosciences:
The Brain is the next biological frontier. In the past twenty years, we have learned more about the brain than in all human history. The study of the human brain is essential for ensuring our health and wellness across the lifespan. Although the field has made enormous progress over the past several decades, understanding of the basic principles of thought and brain function are still far more unknown than known. We know that the brain is made up of vast numbers of neurons and that these neurons communicate with each other — but how does all this neural activity give rise to human thought?
Unraveling how the mind and brain work is a significant step in understanding what makes humans Human
Mental Health Challenges:
The 2010 Global Burden of Disease Study identified Mental, Neurological and Substance use / neuropsychiatric disorders as substantial sources of disease burden. Across the world, the treatment gaps for these conditions are large; thus, many in need of care do not receive adequate or effective interventions. People living with neuropsychiatric disorders often face systematic discrimination in diverse domains of their lives. Despite the suffering and disability that neuropsychiatric disorders can cause, relatively few resources are allocated worldwide to fund the necessary research to effectively prevent and treat neuropsychiatric disorders.
Imagine a world where every mental health professional – regardless of geography or resources – can get the knowledge he or she needs to improve health and save lives.
Disruptive Medical Technology
Health care innovations occur across a spectrum, ranging from small changes that improve some aspect of health care to major shifts that have sweeping effects on the entire healthcare industry. Disruptive technology is already in development for many problems in healthcare. Hundreds of thousands have access to their genetic data, revealing what medical conditions they are susceptible to. Wearable devices letting us monitor vital signs and health parameters remotely and transmitting it to your physician’s office. The precision of surgical robots lets doctors perform previously impossible procedures. Exoskeletons let paralyzed people walk again, and smart algorithms help analyze radiology images.
Disruptive healthcare innovations, can bring complex and expensive health care products and services to greater levels of affordability and accessibility.