Brains on Tap

A sip of science for those of us who aren’t in the field but like to be in the know: that’s Brains on Tap, a series of TED-like talks to educate the public on science and innovation in a comfy atmosphere with food and drinks. The gatherings provide local neuroscientists an opportunity to present their research – and for community members to ask questions in a relaxed, non-academic setting.

Merri Rosen, Ph. D., a professor of neuroscience at Northeast Ohio Medical University and the founder of Brains on Tap, says, “It’s an opportunity for anyone who’s intellectually curious to come and learn about cutting edge brain and health research.”

Radio station WKSU reporter and host Jeff St. Clair – who worked as an analytical chemist before his radio career – joins Dr. Rosen to facilitate the Q & A portion of the event.

Topics so far have included: “Brain Health and Alzheimer’s: What can we do about it?” “It’s Not Your Fault: The Evolution of Appetite Hormones” and “Whisper of the Devil: What is Tinnitus, Anyway?”

The main sponsor, Northeast Ohio Society for Neuroscientists (NEOsfN) works with Kent State University, Hiram College, the University of Akron, Northeast Ohio Medical University and the College of Wooster to present three events a year. Departments at both Kent and NEOMED also sponsor the events. This year’s meetings take place at The Secret Cellar, 176 E. Main St. in downtown Kent. For more information about Brains on Tap, message Dr. Rosen at brainsontap.org or email her at mrosen@neomed.edu.