The Amazing Brain Science Talks

Neuroscientist Gabriel Blanco Gomez (McGill University) explores the connection between genetics, neuroscience and culture that allows us to communicate with each other. He discusses the role of our different brain hemispheres, how they can cause language deficits in children with autism, and the ways our ability to communicate differs from other animals. Watch now to discover what makes human language unique—and why it’s still one of science’s greatest mysteries.

Katie Jensen opens up about her journey with OCD. Diagnosed during childhood, Katie shares her story of life with obsessive-compulsive disorder and shares why awareness and support for young people are more crucial than ever.

Associate Professor Jibran Khokhar, PhD (Western University), explores how cannabis can affect the developing brains of teenagers, with the rise of vaping and edibles. With long-term effects on memory, decision-making and emotional health, this talk sheds light on the risks of marijuana and empowers young people to make informed, healthier choices.

Adrián Noriega de la Colina, MD, PhD, shares how advances in AI and neuroscience could help predict brain aging, identify early risks for conditions like dementia and give us the tools to act before it’s too late. Learn how this grounbreaking research can help doctors, patients and families prepare for the future.

Professor Jelena Ristic, PhD (McGill University), shares insights into how our faces and eyes convey emotions, intentions and mental states. Learn why eye contact is rare but powerful, and discover how our social brains are uniquely designed to connect us to one another.

Q&A Session 1 moderated by Alan Evans and featuring Professor Jelena Ristic, PhD, Adrián Noriega de la Colina, MD, PhD, and Associate Professor Jibran Khokhar, PhD.

Q&A Session 2 moderated by Alan Evans and featuring Katie Jensen, host and editor of Brain Canada’s podcast Playing with Marbles and Neuroscientist Gabriel Blanco Gomez.

Brain Canada’s President and CEO Viviane Poupon, PhD, delivered closing remarks at the 2024 Amazing Brain Science Talks.

Topics ranged from neurodiversity and anxiety to the benefits of sleep and exercise. Watch now to learn more about brain health and the extraordinary capabilities of the human brain.