The Neuroscience Institute recently hosted a delegation of neuroscientists from the University of Ghana, including Professor Patrick Amoateng, Vice-Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, and Dr Claude Fiifi Hayford, Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics.
The visit focused on reinforcing existing research partnerships and exploring new collaborative opportunities in areas of shared interest, including drug discovery using zebrafish screening and biomechanics applications in health. The Ghanaian team expressed particular interest in the concept of a virtual institute, similar to the Neuroscience Institute, and discussed how such a model could be adapted and applied to the Ghanaian context to enhance research capacity and interdisciplinary collaboration. Over the course of the week, the delegation engaged with Sheffield researchers through workshops, lab visits, and interdisciplinary discussions, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and laying the foundation for future joint projects that leverage the complementary expertise of both institutions. This visit, like other activities, was supported by the Partnership Development Fund, demonstrating its pivotal role in sustaining and expanding the Sheffield–Ghana collaboration.
Professor Oliver Bandmann, Co-Director of the Neuroscience Institute, commented:
“The visit from our colleagues at the University of Ghana was highly productive and inspiring, reinforcing existing links and opening up exciting new avenues for collaboration. There is clear scope to take this forward through joint projects and funding applications, and we look forward to building on this momentum through innovative interdisciplinary neuroscience initiatives, including the delivery of a Neuroscience Summer School at the University of Ghana in the next academic year.”