N-CODE Study Group, March 2023, Cornwall

Location: The Bedruthan Hotel & Spa, Cornwall, TR8 4BU Bedruthan website

REGISTRATION BY APPLICATION WILL BE CONSIDERED ON A ROLLING BASIS AND CLOSES 16:00 27TH FEBRUARY 2023 (Please see below and the N-CODE webpage for further details)

This study group will focus on the development of neurotechnologies that shift the emphasis of diagnosis and management of neurological, neuropsychiatric or neurodevelopmental conditions from the hospital into the community. We are seeking attendees from a range of backgrounds. Please apply if you have research skills in one or more of the following areas: mathematical modelling, machine learning, brain-computer interfaces, app development, wearable technology, digital health, signal processing, natural language processing, bioengineering and neurofeedback, user interfaces and engagement, product innovation, behaviour change, and human centred design.

Study groups are a well-established method to seed new collaborations between diverse stakeholders and academia, leading to unexpected new insights and lasting collaborations, as well as to outcomes such as publications, patents and grant funding to further develop partnerships. For this first Study Group we have four exciting challenges:

1. Using technology to reduce loneliness in dementia
2. Predicting seizure risk in epilepsy using wearable technologies
3. Rehabilitation and training of motor skills using brain-computer interfaces
4. Digital technologies for treating post-traumatic stress disorder

On Day 1, each challenge will be presented by the stakeholder and then researchers will work collaboratively in a 'hackathon' style on the challenge(s) that most interest them. By the end of the week, teams will present their solution to date and receive feedback from the room, after which they will be invited to submit proposals to N-CODE for follow on pump-priming funding of up to £35,000 per project. This pump-priming funding will enable development of pilot data or prototypes suitable for publication and application for onward funding.

Applications

To apply to attend the event, please email the N-CODE team at ncode@contacts.bham.ac.uk with the following information:

• Your name and affiliation;
• A brief personal statement detailing your areas of expertise, why you wish to attend and how you feel you would contribute (250 words max);
• If you would like to reserve accommodation within the venue.

If the event is oversubscribed, decisions on attendance will be made on ensuring a balance of expertise and interest across all challenges.

We will be sifting applicants on a regular basis, so please apply promptly. The final deadline for applications is 16:00, Monday 27th February and successful applicants will be notified no later than 1st March. Successful applicants will be asked to confirm their place by completing a small contribution towards event costs of £50 for graduate students and £100 for all other attendees.