The British Neuroscience Association Limited

The British Neuroscience Association (BNA) is the largest UK organisation dedicated to connecting, representing, and promoting neuroscience and neuroscientists both in the United Kingdom and globally. It serves as a vibrant and forward-thinking community that brings together academia, industry, clinical practice, and wider society to advance the field of neuroscience.

Overview

Founded as a nonprofit entity and registered charity (Charity number: 1103852), the BNA supports a diverse membership of over 3,000 individuals including neuroscientists and allied professionals whose research and interests span the entire spectrum of neuroscience—from ion channels and cellular mechanisms to whole animal behaviour and clinical applications.

Mission and Values

The association is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive cross-sector neuroscience community. Its three core values are to inform, connect, and influence the neuroscience field and related disciplines. The BNA actively facilitates communication and collaboration among individuals, academic institutions, industry partners, clinical practitioners, medical charities, policy makers, and funding bodies.

Activities and Impact

The BNA organizes major events such as the biennial Festival of Neuroscience, which attracts over 1,200 participants from various sectors including fundamental research, commercial enterprises, neurology, and psychiatry. This event is unique in the UK for integrating multiple neuroscience disciplines and fostering public engagement through outreach programmes.

In addition, the BNA supports initiatives like the Scholar programme aimed at promoting diversity by assisting students from under-represented ethnic groups in neuroscience through networking, mentorship, and bursaries. The association also partners with prominent institutions such as the UK Dementia Research Institute to further neuroscience research and education.

Financial and Governance Information

For the financial year ending September 30, 2023, the British Neuroscience Association reported a total income of approximately £323,000 and expenditures of around £365,000. The organisation is overseen by a board of 12 trustees who serve without remuneration. The charity operates with transparency in governance and financial reporting, maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

Summary

The British Neuroscience Association plays a crucial role in the UK neuroscience landscape by fostering a collaborative and inclusive community that spans research, clinical practice, and industry. Through its membership services, events, and programmes, it contributes significantly to the advancement and dissemination of neuroscience knowledge and its application to health and disease.

This article is based on information from the British Neuroscience Association and the UK Charity Commission records as of 2025.

[1] https://www.bna.org.uk/about/ [2] https://www.bna.org.uk/about/about-neuroscience/ [3] https://www.bna.org.uk [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4003050 [5] https://www.ukdri.ac.uk/partners/british-neuroscience-association-bna