Applied Neuroscience’s object of inquiry is the human nervous system within the contexts in which it functions, oriented towards questions of use and the goal of improving human lives.

The scientific basis of Applied Neuroscience

Applied Neuroscience uses scientific method to generate, test and extend neuroscience knowledge. It investigates complex neural phenomena across multiple scales and contexts, in the lab, in the field and in everyday life.

Examples of what this looks like in practice:

Revealing the nervous system as never before: Advances in neuroimaging, molecular science and computational and AI technologies are allowing researchers to map neural cells, circuits and networks in extraordinary detail.
Creating new possibilities through neurotechnology: Technologies that record, interpret and stimulate neural activity are opening new approaches to communication, movement, rehabilitation and the investigation of nervous-system function.
Rethinking our understanding of disease: Combining genetics, molecular biology, brain imaging and clinical evidence is revealing new dimensions of neurological conditions, informing earlier detection, more precise investigation and prevention.
Investigating the nervous system in everyday life: Mobile and wearable technologies allow researchers to study nervous-system function in relation to movement, behaviour, social interaction and the environments in which people live.

The Applied Neuroscience Association (ANA)

Our PURPOSE

We exist to advance the field of Applied Neuroscience for public benefit.

Our MISSION

Building a global interdisciplinary network to deliver our shared purpose.

Our VISION

A world where the full potential of Applied Neuroscience is realised for the benefit of all humanity.

discover the brain

🌍 ANA APPLIED TALKS

'NATURE WITHIN'

12TH NOVEMBER | online & IN-PERSON AT KING'S COLLEGE LONDON

FREE access to anyone curious about their brain

ANA is proud to convene this unique conversation with Dr James Bashford

Author of nature within: how the natural world shapes our minds, bodies and health

"Reconnecting with Nature is the most important public health intervention of our time."

Science has shown how our bodies are shaped by our environment – yet we still see ourselves as separate from the natural world. In this talk, Dr Bashford will discuss the need to reawaken our inner connection with Nature. He argues that "the challenge to conserve human health mandates an improved appreciation for all of life's natural processes."

This is an interactive session, offering a rare opportunity to engage directly with Dr Bashford, challenge assumptions, ask questions and explore what his ideas could mean for our health, our relationship with nature and the future of public health.

Dr Bashford completed his medical degree at the University of Cambridge in 2010, before starting specialist neurology training at King’s College Hospital in London. He obtained a PhD in clinical neuroscience in 2019. He now works as a clinical academic and honorary consultant neurologist in South London, leading a research programme and caring for patients with motor neuron disease. He is also a father, an amateur moth-er and a makeshift marathoner. His first book, Nature Within, was published in January 2026.

This event was postponed from the October Spotlight - we hope you can make it!

Upcoming Events & Alerts

🌍 ANA Global Chapter Spotlight Replay Series

FREE access to anyone curious about their brain 🧠

EXPLORE interdisciplinary TALKS, PODCASTS, PANEL DISCUSSIONS, MINI-MASTERCLASSES, CASE STUDIES AND FIELD/RESEARCH INSIGHTS from across the global ANA chapter network.

Part of the ANA Chapter Launch!

🚀 INTRODUCING THREE NEW CHAPTERS

Launching 1st January, 2027!

🇺🇸 Houston — Corporate Sustainability & Human Systems

🇵🇭 Manila — Environmental Neuroscience, including Energy & Soil Systems

🇦🇺 Melbourne — Clinical Psychology, Community & Volunteer Mental Health Support

🌐 ESTABLISHED ANA CHAPTERS

One Year Anniversary!

🇦🇪 Dubai — Neuroleadership in Times of Uncertainty

🇫🇷 Paris — AI & Mental Health Case Studies

🇩🇪 Frankfurt — Brain States, Cognition & Workplace Decision-Making

🇧🇷 São Paulo — NeuroApp: AI & Mental Health ‘bridging the gap between crisis and systems’

🇭🇰 Hong Kong — Neuroleadership & the PROWESS Model in the workplace

🌍 FUTURE CHAPTERS

Stay Tuned!

🇳🇿 New Zealand 🇸🇬 Singapore 🇨🇦 Canada 🇳🇱 Netherlands 🇵🇹 Portugal

ANA's Global Chapter Spotlight REPLAY Series showcases how neuroscience is being applied across different disciplines, sectors, cultures, and real-world challenges where you are.

🎥 Available From 1st January 2027 via the ANA Replay Library

Upcoming Events & Alerts

Full Member

Qualified Neuroscientist, Applied Neuroscientist, or Allied Discipline

Full Members hold an MSc or higher in neuroscience, applied neuroscience, neuropsychology, neuropsychiatry, or a medical or research degree with neuroscience as a core component.

Associate Member

Academic or Professional, Advancing Neuroscience Applications in your work

Associate Members hold an MSc or higher degree in a field outside of neuroscience or equivalent professional qualifications and are interested in integrating neuroscience applications into their work.

Student/Graduate

Studied or Studying Neuroscience,

Applied Neuroscientist or Allied Discipline

Student Members are those currently studying neuroscience, applied neuroscience, or an allied discipline with a core neuroscience component, such as a medical, psychiatry or psychology degree.