June 15, 2026
We are delighted to announce that, in May 2026, Dr. Mark Brandon was nominated as the new Director of Basic Neuroscience at the Douglas. He succeeds Dr. Sylvain Williams, who has led this important area since December 2020 with dedication.
Over the past six years, Dr. Williams has been a steadfast advocate for our basic neuroscience community. His leadership and invaluable contributions to major strategic initiatives have helped shape and strengthen this pillar of research at the Douglas. We extend our sincere thanks for his service.
The election to this leadership position resulted in a tie between Dr. Brandon and Dr. Majid Mohajerani. As such, Dr. Brandon will take on an initial 2.5 year term, with Dr. Mohajerani taking up the position subsequently.
As Dr. Brandon steps into this role, we are excited about the energy, insight, and direction he will bring to basic neuroscience at the Douglas. We look forward to this next chapter under his leadership.
“My goal is to organize our shared priorities, through a practical and collaborative approach, and to advocate for our collective needs. Under my leadership I hope to make the Basic Neuroscience Division more visible, more cohesive, and more ambitious, with modernized infrastructure, stronger partnerships, and labs that can weather difficult funding cycles without losing momentum.”
– Dr. Mark Brandon, Director of Basic Neuroscience, Douglas Research Centre
Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr. Brandon!