The Genetics of Epilepsy research program at The University of Melbourne is co-headed by paediatric neurologist, Laureate Professor Ingrid Scheffer and adult neurologist, Laureate Professor Sam Berkovic. We have led the discovery of epilepsy genes with genetic scientists globally since our research led to the discovery of the first epilepsy gene in 1995.
Located at the Melbourne Brain Centre on the Austin Health campus in Melbourne, Australia, the Epilepsy Research Centre is a large, comprehensive epilepsy research group. We perform wide-ranging and important studies into epilepsy. Our Australia-wide and global study, has many strong international collaborations.
Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) are the most severe group of epilepsies. Our Developmental and epileptic encephalopathy Research (DEER) Program brings together our 30-year history of DEE research at the Epilepsy Research Centre. We have always been keen to include people from around Australia and beyond. We now have research funding to perform a formal Australia-wide study. We have brought together experts in all areas of DEE research and healthcare to enable us to ask important research questions that will improve outcomes.
In partnership with paediatric neurologist, Dr Katherine Howell from the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne and clinical geneticist, Dr Emma Palmer from the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, we have developed a DEE Natural History Study (NHS). The DEE NHS will focus on epilepsy, development, other medical issues and psychosocial outcomes over the life of each DEE disease. With help from the doctors from around Australia who have joined our DEER Australian Paediatric Neurology Network, the Genetic Epilepsy Team Australia (GETA) and our DEE Consumer Engagement Committee, our research will improve outcomes for individuals with DEE and their families, and support the people who care for them.
Meet our team!