Beginning with nothing but an idea and a sketch on the back of a paper napkin, Dr. Wilder Penfield began to chart a future that provides hope to people with conditions from migraines to stroke to Parkinson’s disease.
The Neuro was created at the Royal Victoria Hospital in 1933, before it moved to its new building across University Street. The cornerstone of The Neuro was laid on October 6, 1933. On September 27, 1934 Sir Edward Beatty, chancellor of McGill University, declared the institute formally opened.
The Neuro has grown to be the largest specialized neuroscience research and clinical centre in Canada, and one of the largest in the world. Notable achievements made at The Neuro over its history include the development of the Montreal procedure for the treatment of epilepsy, major breakthroughs in brain tumour, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease research, and pioneering the use of electrical probes in surgery.
Today, The Neuro continues to lead the way in global scientific innovation. Driven by a unique vision, The Neuro is taking the lead in becoming the first open science institute in the world. It is moving to radically transform the way we do science - breaking down barriers to accelerate discovery and find new treatments in order to improve the lives of millions of people around the world.
