Catz Hosts International Workshop on Next-Generation Brain Imaging

In early June, researchers from the Oxford Centre for Human Brain Activity (OHBA) ran a highly successful four-day international workshop. The event took place at St Catherine’s College, and welcomed 32 participants from 7 countries.

The workshop focused on advanced analysis techniques for data acquired using the new OPM-MEG (Optically-Pumped Magnetometers) system recently installed at OHBA. This state-of-the-art scanner allows researchers to measure brain activity in both adults and children with exceptional temporal and spatial resolution – a crucial development for pushing the boundaries of cognitive and clinical neuroscience.

Catz hosted scientists from across the globe to receive hands-on training in how to work with OPM data. The sessions covered essential topics such as pre-processing, sensor-level analysis, source reconstruction, and real-world applications in clinical and cognitive studies.

Dr Ole Jensen, Fellow of St Catherine’s College and a leading figure in the application of OPM-based neuroscience at Oxford, commented: “We were delighted to welcome 32 researchers from seven countries to Oxford for this hands-on workshop. Our goal was to equip them with the skills needed to analyse OPM data in cognitive and clinical neuroscience research. In doing so, we’re not only supporting the global scientific community, but also highlighting Oxford’s leadership in the development and application of OPM technology. And of course, the excellent lunches provided by the college – as well as punting on the Cherwell – were much-appreciated bonuses!”