Bryce Vissel

After achieving his PhD in medical genetics at the University of Melbourne[9][10] Vissel joined the Garvan Institute's Neuroscience Division. He was subsequently awarded a NHMRC CJ Martin Fellowship[11] to pursue neuroscience research with Stephen Heinemann at the Salk Institute.[12] At Salk, Vissel authored studies describing molecular mechanisms that regulate synaptic function, and the role of these mechanisms in behaviour, learning and memory, and neurological diseases. He also received a Human Frontiers Program Award[13] and a Fulbright Award.[14]

In 2002, Vissel returned to Garvan, taking up a position as Head of the Neurodegenerative Diseases Group before being recruited by UTS. Vissel and UTS established the CNRM in 2017.[15] Incorporating facilities in Botany and St Vincent’s Hospital, the Centre focuses on research of the brain and spinal cord.

Under Vissel's leadership, the CNRM’s Brain Regeneration Program has shown that repair appears possible in the Ca1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus, the brain’s memory centre.[16] These findings have potential to impact treatment of a range of diseases through stimulating the brain’s regenerative mechanisms, including Parkinson's,[17] Alzheimer's, and other devastating conditions.

Vissel was instrumental in bringing UCLA-based scientist Professor Reggie Edgerton's[18] pioneering work on spinal cord injuries to Australia,[19][20][21][22] where they plan to conduct the first neurostimulation studies in the Southern Hemisphere.

Vissel is currently Chair of the Advisory Board of Cellmid Ltd, a position he has held since July 2015.[23]