Bebensee Schizophrenia Research

The BSRU was formed in 2001 using a generous philanthropic gift of the Ian Douglas Bebensee Foundation. This unit is dedicated and directed to support research in the area of schizophrenia with particular emphasis on, although not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI, DTI, MRS), neuropsychology and studies on individuals at high risk for developing schizophrenia and first episode psychosis. The environment provided by the Bebensee Schizophrenia Research Unit is an ideal training ground for research trainees.

The BSRU aims to delineate the cerebral basis for psychosis by conducting research in the following areas:

  • Neurochemistry (biochemical markers, drug development, drug metabolism and interactions)
  • Neuroimaging (gCT, MRI, MRS, fMRI, DTI)
  • Neuropsychology (motor, sensory, and cognitive)
  • Medical genetics
  • Early risk indicators within families
  • Improved therapeutic outcomes
  • Edmonton Early Psychosis Intervention Clinic (EEPIC)
  • Long term prospective outcome studies