Brain Teaser 2023 is a public outreach event held by the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, john Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR) right in the heart of ANU.

Inspired by the National Science Week schools theme, we are combining fundamental research and neuro-related industries that helps bridge the scientific gap between research and pharmaceutical output. This event is open to all, from children to adults who are curious about how the brain works and the current advancement of neuroscience research and clinical studies.

This is our 3rd year organizing this event, showcasing key concepts and techniques used in neuroscience research, from memory and auditory processing to patch-clamp electrophysiology and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans to visualise the retina. Visitors were able to walk through their neuroanatomy in a virtual-reality system, and measure their nerve conduction and reflexes. The talks covered a range of topics, including how our brains react to opera singing, deep brain stimulation, how exercise could save our vision, and developments in brain cancer research, among others.