Understanding how the central nervous system recovers from injury remains a significant challenge in neuroscience and neurology. We now know that the brain is remarkably adaptable, capable of self-reorganization when injured. Research over the past fifty years has concentrated on the hippocampus and associated areas critical for learning and memory. Studies have revealed that the hippocampus undergoes substantial structural changes, such as axonal sprouting, following damage to the entorhinal cortex, its primary cortical input. Dr. Ramirez and his team have been examining whether this axonal sprouting aids in the restoration of memory function after brain injury in rodents. Their research indicates that promoting sprouting in the hippocampus can indeed improve memory recovery post-injury. In his upcoming lecture, Dr. Ramirez will also discuss his personal experiences as both a scholar and a social justice advocate.

Dr. Julio Ramirez '77 is the Stuart Dickson Professor of Psychology and Director of the Neuroscience Program at Davidson College. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his work including a 2009 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring presented by President Obama, the 2011 Society for Neuroscience Award for Education in Neuroscience, the 2014 American Psychological Association Distinguished Career Contributions to Education and Training in Psychology Award, and the 2024 Association for Psychological Science Lifetime Achievement Award for Mentoring.