Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre

Maindy Park is an Innovation Campus but also the physical embodiment of an Innovation System; it represents the coming together of disciplines and people to share problems, recognising that solving the major problems facing our society in the field of health requires teams of people with different and diverse talents. As a hub for neuroimaging, CUBRIC offers access to a combination of facilities and expertise and brings together for the first time multiple MRI scanning facilities, MEG scanning, EEG facilities, brain stimulation, sleep laboratories, drug trial facilities and modern office environments, combining open plan (new approach for the client group), break out areas and meeting spaces all within one building.

The new facilities are unique in Europe and one of only two worldwide –with access to a truly innovative microstructure MRI facility; a machine so powerful that it has been equated to the Hubble Space Telescope. To put this into perspective a human hair is about 50 thousandths of a millimetre in diameter; this scanner is capable of giving scientists information about structures so small that 50 of them could be placed side by side on a single human hair! All of this supports the research of the Centre and allows CUBRIC to undertake cutting-edge research methods and apply the outcomes to key psychological and clinical questions. This research aims to have a direct impact on understanding human health and wellbeing, including the brain changes that lead to disordered cognition and mental health. In addition, the facility is designed to NHS standards, thus allowing collaborative working between leading academics, including across University Colleges, collaborators, industry partners and healthcare professionals; all with the aim of making a real difference and discovering early treatments to many of the debilitating diseases society faces today.

In keeping with the community and university’s commitment to local preservation, CUBRIC’s design employs smart energy efficient features to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.