At Young Epilepsy, we work in partnership with UCL-Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital to improve outcomes for children with epilepsy. Our five key goals guide our research:
- Understanding Causes
We investigate the genetic, structural, and physiological mechanisms behind epilepsy through cohort studies, neuroimaging, and tissue analysis. - Exploring Neurodevelopmental Impact
We study how epilepsy affects behaviour and development, using animal models and long-term cohort studies. - Evaluating Early Interventions
We assess the impact of early surgery, new medications, and educational support on long-term outcomes. - Reducing Burden
We develop behavioural programmes and rehabilitation strategies to support children and families. - Building Research Capacity
We foster collaboration and training across institutions, supporting PhD and MD students and encouraging independent research careers.
We do this by following three main workstreams:
- Workstream 1: Understanding Childhood Epilepsies
- Workstream 2: Outstanding Treatment
- Workstream 3: Outstanding Support
Key Projects and Achievements
- We launched new studies on genetics, educational challenges, and neonatal seizure treatments.
- We completed major projects on epilepsy in infancy and the cognitive effects of status epilepticus.
- We secured £220,000 in new funding and published 31 peer-reviewed research papers and 23 expert reviews.
- Our team contributed to international epilepsy guidelines and classifications, including cortical dysplasia and paediatric epilepsy surgery.
Current Research Highlights
- Genetic studies on epilepsy and response to the ketogenic diet.
- Investigations into educational and behavioural challenges in children with epilepsy.
- Studies on status epilepticus, Rasmussen’s syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and neonatal seizures.
- Audits on medication use, sleep disturbances, bone health, and family impact.
Our Team
Led by Professor Helen Cross, our multidisciplinary team includes neurologists, neuroscientists, psychologists, dieticians, and research fellows. We collaborate across institutions and internationally to drive innovation in childhood epilepsy care.
