The Brain Research Awareness and Information Network (BRAINet) is the volunteer outreach organization of the OHSU Brain Institute (OBI). BRAINet's mission is to foster awareness and support for OBI and for neuroscience research by educating the public and engaging in community interaction.

BRAINet Lecture Luncheons

The flagship outreach component of BRAINet is a monthly lecture luncheon with a neuroscience researcher or clinician from OHSU. These events happen the third Monday of every month, unless there is a conflict with a holiday. The cost is $25 for members and $30 for non-members, and includes a three-course plated meal.

The lecture luncheons have typically taken place in person at the Multnomah Athletic Club, however we've had to modify our outreach efforts for the sake of public health in the midst of COVID-19. We are pleased to offer the lectures virtually at no cost.  All lectures are from 12 noon - 1 p.m. Below you will find links to the recent virtual lectures:

• January 18, 2022: Kelly Collins, M.D. - "Neurons and electrons: Understanding and communicating with the brain"
  • Password: aXbcfmD2
• February 22, 2022: Claudio Mello, M.D., Ph.D., and Henrique von Gersdorff, Ph.D. - "Learning to sing with fast neurons: The amazing brains of songbirds"
  • Password: MtKdvVT6
• March 21, 2022: Amala Soumyanath, B.Pharm., Ph.D., - "Botanicals for brain health: Challenges and opportunities"
  • Password: EtYdMJS4
• April 18, 2022: Patricia M. Blasco, Ph.D., - "Children born low birth weight and preterm: Impacts to the brain"
  • Password: KwfYE4cN
  • View the slides.
• May 16, 2022: Ben Sivyer, Ph.D., - "Unconscious non-image forming vision: How does light control our sleep, mood and other functions?"
  • Password: vPCut27z
• June 20, 2022: Vimal Aga, M.D., - "Late-onset psychiatric symptoms - Should I be worried?"
  • Password: hPqB5GYm
• July 18, 2022: Juan Piantino, M.D., - "Rocket science and brain surgery: Uncovering the effects of zero gravity on cerebral function"
  • ​​​​​​​Password: NvDUtmh2

BRAINet Membership Benefits

BRAINet provides you the opportunity to connect with and promote neuroscience. Here are just a few examples of the benefits of joining our membership:

• Attend the monthly BRAINet lecture luncheons at the member rate to hear fascinating presentations by faculty members of OHSU, and engage in stimulating conversation with other BRAINet members during the luncheon.
• Volunteer at Brain Awareness lectures and numerous other public and by-invitation-only events.
• Attend the BRAINet Annual Meeting and vote in elections of Officers and the Board. Further engage as a member up for election in a leadership position.
• Volunteer at the Brain Library at the Center for Health & Healing to help patients and their families find information on neurology-related diseases and disorders.
• Receive early invitations to public and members-only OBI and OHSU events and tours.
• Connect with advocacy groups for brain diseases, and help them access the resources of the OBI.
• Meet renowned national and international neuroscientists while learning about the latest research among enjoyable and bright peers.
• Make a difference while having fun! As a BRAINet member, your donation of time or treasure is held in special regard.

Become a BRAINet Member

You can play an important part in generating enthusiasm for brain research and, most importantly, in making vital connections within the community.

Membership is for the fiscal year (July-June). You are able to use your credit card to donate to BRAINet via the monthly lectures registration portal. Sign-up for the BRAINet Synapse newsletter to receive the link to register and donate.

Donations of $25 or more are tax-deductible and you will receive documents from the OHSU Foundation.