Research summary
Early childhood is a critical period for brain development. But how cognitive brain networks mature—including how they are shaped by internal factors (such as pediatric epilepsy) or external influences (such as environment)—remains unclear. As Canada Research Chair in Neuroimaging of Epilepsy, Dr. Sara Larivière is using advanced neuroimaging and a multidisciplinary approach to study early brain development.
She and her research team are comparing the effects of neurological conditions and environmental adversities to identify biomarkers that predict later cognitive dysfunction. Their research will deepen our understanding of how early-life experiences shape the brain and will help guide public health interventions to support better cognitive outcomes for children.