Newcastle University

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder. People with the condition experience repeated episodes of muscle weakness and fatigue. Particularly affecting muscles of the eyes, face, throat and limbs. It can also affect the muscles that control breathing making it a very dangerous condition if not treated.

Recently Dr Kai Alter, a senior lecturer in IoN and Dr Ming Lai a consultant neurophysiologist at the RVI addressed the local group of the Myasthenia Gravis Association to discuss the research going on into the condition at Newcastle. It was also a chance for these researchers to gain some valuable insights from people living with MG on a daily basis.  

It was a really great session with lots of information being shared and exchanged on both sides. The group are keen for Ming and Kai to return and update them when they are further along with their project. Also many of the group are keen to sign up and participate in the research.

Engagement and outreach are becoming more and more common phrases within the University. Research produced here yields amazing outcomes and makes real differences to people's lives. It is therefore our responsibility to publicise research outcomes as widely as possible. Equally to make a project as relevant and useful as possible it is essential that we work with stakeholders outside the University and gather their opinions and ideas.

The IoN has a good track record of engagement we have our Research Volunteers database, IoN ambassadors programme and every year we celebrate Brain Awareness Week. However, we can always do more. This year from 7th - 12th September the British Science Festival is taking place in Newcastle and the IoN is involved in lots of activities, you can see these here, and view the whole programme on the British Science Association website.