Queen’s has been selected to help develop the world’s largest brain research databases. The High Performance Computing Virtual Laboratory (HPCVL) at the university will manage data for the Ontario Brain Institute’s (OBI). Brain-CODE (Centre for Ontario Data Exploration).

“We provide the highest level of security for the protection of intellectual property and compliance,” says Ken Edgecombe, head of the HPCVL. “Queen’s is recognized as a secure site.”

HPCVL is consolidating Brain-CODE data from many neurological databases into one platform to help neuroscientists both in Ontario and worldwide, develop strategies for prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases and disorders.

Consolidating all the data into one platform will help researchers find patterns and trends as they review data from different organizations. Brain-CODE will also provide a large patient database for clinical trials, allowing for even greater data collection.

"I am thrilled that HPCVL here at Queen's under the leadership of Ken Edgecombe will be a hub in connecting the research of so many neuroscientists,” says Steven Liss, Queen’s Vice-Principal (Research). “The participation of HPCVL means an acceleration in the understanding of brain pathology, and will ultimately benefit patients with neurological conditions. "

Dr. Edgecombe says all the hardware is in place and the HPCVL should be ready to start collecting data May 1.

Learn more about the Ontario Brain Institute.