Unraveling the mysteries of brain disorders: why we do what we do

Why did Einstein think in pictures instead of words and numbers? How is Daniel Tammet’s ability to recite 22,514 decimal places of pi from memory in only five hours related to his childhood epilepsy? Why did being struck by lightning cause orthopedic surgeon Tony Cicoria to become fixated on Chopin?

We simply don't know—yet. The inner workings of the brain, as well as those of the entire central nervous system, are almost incomprehensibly complex. Even as this vital organ defines our very humanity, our collective knowledge about how it works and the disorders that affect it barely scratches the surface.

Sowing the seeds of discovery: how we do it

At the Brain Research Foundation, our goal is to help researchers explore innovative, new ideas by giving them funding for start-up projects—money they may not be able to get anywhere else. Projects like these enable researchers to gather enough data to make a good case for bigger projects and more funding from agencies such as the National Institutes of Health.

That’s how small beginnings lead to great discoveries. And it all starts with you and your generosity.

Investing in understanding: how you can help

Thanks to our generous donors, we’ve been able to give more than $33 million, including more than 500 seed grants, to researchers who are blazing new trails in the field of brain research.

You can change lives, too. Please donate or volunteer today!

What’s on this site

We encourage you to explore the exciting and inspirational content on this site. Take a minute to learn more about us, read some profiles of the brilliant researchers, or learn about some of the many neurological disorders our researchers are studying.