A steadfast donor who cares passionately about advancing neuroscience research and treatment has anonymously given $10 million to the Brigham.

Most of this commitment—$7.5 million—is dedicated to the hospital’s NeuroTechnology Studio, a sophisticated suite of instruments launched in 2017 that provides researchers with advanced tools to further understand brain function and prevent and treat the most devastating brain diseases.

Dennis J. Selkoe, MD, co-director of the Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, and Charles Jennings, PhD, executive director of the Program for Interdisciplinary Neuroscience and the Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, oversee the NeuroTechnology Studio.

Researchers at the Brigham and other local institutions can access and learn how to use state-of-the-art technologies at the studio, such as highly specialized microscopes, new genomic instruments, and advanced imaging equipment that would otherwise be beyond the reach of individual research groups.

Thanks to this tremendous contribution, Brigham researchers will expand their studies to include cancer, tissue engineering, cell biology, immunology, and more. The NeuroTechnology Studio will also grow its community of researchers and encourage more collaborations between scientists at the Brigham and other Boston-area biomedical institutions.

“We remain profoundly grateful for the donor’s generosity,” says Jennings. “With their backing of our mission, the studio will continue to acquire the newest technologies and recruit expert technical staff who oversee the instruments, train users, and assist them in applying new methods to their research.”

In addition to bolstering the studio’s work, the donor committed $2.5 million to create the Dennis J. Selkoe Distinguished Chair in Neurology, which honors Selkoe and advances neurology research, education, and care for years to come. The inaugural chair holder is Tracy Young-Pearse, PhD, vice chair of Basic Research in Neurology and one of Selkoe’s primary mentees.

“This endowed position is invaluable as Dr. Young-Pearse and her lab pursue novel treatments for neurodegenerative and developmental disorders, especially in this golden era of rapidly evolving technology and therapeutics,” says Selkoe, the Coates Professor of Neurologic Diseases. “The continued support and trust of this philanthropist enables the Brigham to drive forward new ideas to solve difficult diseases affecting millions worldwide.”