Professor Selena Bartlett and her research on neuroscience and neuroplasticity

About the research 

Over 30 years of leading neuroscience lab using cutting-edge brain imaging technology, molecular biology, animal behaviour, chemogenetics, clinical research, artificial intelligence, social media and screenomes, pharmaceutical, patient cohort analysis.

The research was conducted in this manner to utilise cutting-edge scientific tools and knowledge to understand how the brain works and what environmental factors influence its development that lead to brain diseases and disorders.

Professor Selena Bartlett

Group Leader Neuroscience and Neuroplasticity, Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and the Translational Research Institute (TRI)

Researcher profile

Outcomes of the research 

Identification that early life stress or adverse childhood experiences or trauma are some of the leading causes of mental illness and neurological diseases. The brain is plastic, meaning it can heal and recover from adversity. Neuroplasticity and brain health are the future for preventing and treating mental and physical health disorders. Without integrating this knowledge about the root causes of illness- that is, the personal human experience- into clinical treatment and practice, very little will change. 

Discover research results 

The Australian Childhood Maltreatment Study (ACMS)  has found that Australians who experience maltreatment are substantially more likely to have:

• mental health disorders
• health risk behaviours
• higher health service utilisation.

There are figures at this website that are vital to be undertstood and integrated into medical and clinical research and practice.”

Do you ever have unexpected findings?

Yes, every day, we find something unexpected and new. This is the beauty of science.

What does this research mean for the people of Queensland?

Early life stress, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma are leading causes of mental illness and neurological diseases. Understanding that the brain is plastic and can heal from adversity through neuroplasticity is key to preventing and treating mental and physical health disorders. 

By integrating this knowledge into clinical treatment and practice, we can address the root causes of illness and significantly improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders. Emphasising neuroplasticity and brain health offers a promising future for effectively managing mental and physical health issues, leading to better recovery and well-being.

Does this open the door to any further research topics?

Yes, we are currently working with medical professionals, allied health and social services to develop tools and techniques to integrate this knowledge into daily practice, for prevention and treatment. Because brain health is everyone’s business.

Do you have any advice for aspiring mental health researchers?

• Gain a solid foundation in neuroscience, as it is the future and crucial for any mental health researcher.
• Promote Brain Health: Focus on neuroplasticity and brain health as future avenues for preventing and treating mental health disorders. Highlight the brain’s ability to heal and recover from adversity.
• Always ask questions and stay curious. Mental health is a complex field with many unanswered questions, so your curiosity will drive your research.
• Get Hands-On Experience: Seek internships, volunteer opportunities, or research assistant positions. Practical experience is invaluable and will help you understand the research process.
• Pursue Advanced Education: Pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in a relevant field. Advanced education provides specialised knowledge and opens up more research opportunities.
• Become proficient in various research methods, including qualitative and quantitative techniques. This knowledge is essential for conducting robust and credible research.
• Collaborate: Work with experienced researchers and join research groups. Collaboration can provide mentorship, enhance your skills, and increase the impact of your work.
• Focus on a Niche: Identify a specific area of interest within mental health and focus on it. Specialising can make you an expert in that area and enhance the quality of your research.
• Stay Updated: Stay informed about the latest research and advancements in mental health by subscribing to journals, attending conferences, and participating in workshops.
• Develop strong writing and presentation skills. Being able to communicate your findings effectively is crucial for advancing your career and contributing to the field.

Is there anything else about this research you feel would be beneficial for people in the mental health sector to know?

The current mental health sector is struggling to meet the needs of people and is slow to adapt to new scientific evidence and findings. Early life stress, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma are leading causes of mental illness and neurological diseases. To truly address these issues, we must understand that the brain is plastic and can heal from adversity through neuroplasticity.

Integrating this knowledge into clinical treatment and practice is crucial for addressing the root causes of illness and significantly improving mental health outcomes for Queenslanders. The emphasis on neuroplasticity and brain health offers a promising future for effectively managing mental and physical health issues, leading to better recovery and well-being. Disrupting the current mental health sector to embrace these advancements is essential for driving progress and meeting the evolving needs of those affected by mental health disorders.

Are there any other related studies you’d recommend people to read?

Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University

Is there anything else you’d like to share about this research project?

Welcome collaborations to integrate this knowledge and science into research and clinical practice.