One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Personalising Youth Mental Health Treatments with Genetics and Brain Science

This event brings together leading researchers from the Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science to explore the latest scientific advances in youth mental healthcare. Chaired by Professor Jenny Rodger, Head of Brain Plasticity at Perron Institute, the panel will discuss how cutting-edge research is shaping more effective, tailored approaches to treatment, diagnosis, and support for young people.

PhD candidate Mr Bradley Roberts will discuss how pharmacogenetics can guide personalised prescribing for young people with anxiety and depression. His research focuses on using genetic information to predict medication response, reduce side effects, and improve treatment outcomes in youth mental healthcare.
Research Fellow, Dr Aleksandra Miljevic will introduce non-pharmacological treatment options for young people, highlighting her research into brain- and behaviour-based biomarkers. Her work aims to predict individual responses to therapies and support more targeted, effective interventions.
The session will conclude with a discussion on the future of personalised care pathways in mental health—grounded in research and applicable across the lifespan—followed by an open Q&A with the audience.

10.00-10.45am Professor Rodger, Dr Aleksandra Miljevic, PhD candidate Brad Roberts

10.45-11.00am Q&A

11.00-11.30am Tea and coffee