New Director announced for the Centre for Brain Research

Motor Neurone Disease NZ welcomes the appointment of Professor Hanneke Hulst as the next Director of the Centre for Brain Research (CBR) at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.

An internationally respected clinical neuroscientist based at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands, Professor Hulst will begin her role in December 2025. Her research focuses on the underlying mechanisms of cognitive impairment, combining neuroimaging, biomarkers, and behavioural science to help improve outcomes for people affected by neurological conditions. She also leads applied projects that support early diagnosis and care — including the Multiple Screener, a digital tool that helps clinicians detect cognitive decline earlier.

Professor Hulst is also a passionate science communicator and educator. Through her role as general manager of Brein in Beeld (Brain in Focus), she brings brain science to life for the wider public — a philosophy that strongly aligns with the CBR’s education and outreach work, including the Brain Bee Challenge and Being Brainy programme.

Advancing MND research through partnership

The CBR is home to New Zealand’s leading research group focused on motor neurone disease (MND), led by Dr Emma Scotter. Her team of 10 dedicated researchers has published more than 20 peer-reviewed papers, helping to deepen understanding of MND both nationally and internationally. As a long-time supporter of the CBR and its MND research platform, we’re excited to see this vital work continue and grow under new leadership.

“We congratulate Professor Hulst on her appointment and look forward to the next chapter in our partnership with the Centre for Brain Research,” says Mark Leggett, Chief Executive of Motor Neurone Disease NZ.

“The CBR’s commitment to collaboration, excellence, and community mirrors our own. Together, we’re working to advance understanding of motor neurone disease and improve outcomes for those affected.”

Acknowledging a legacy of impact

Her appointment marks a significant new chapter for the Centre, which has been led since 2009 by Distinguished Professor Sir Richard Faull. Under his leadership, the CBR has become one of the University’s flagship research centres, home to more than 100 research groups, over 500 researchers, and 60 clinicians. It now hosts 11 dedicated research platforms focused on the major brain conditions affecting people in Aotearoa — including motor neurone disease.

Motor Neurone Disease NZ acknowledges the remarkable leadership of Distinguished Professor Sir Richard Faull. His vision, generosity of spirit, and unwavering commitment have helped shape brain research in Aotearoa and made a lasting impact on the MND community. We are pleased he will remain involved in the Centre’s work as a CBR Ambassador.

Together with the Centre for Brain Research, we remain committed to a future where no one faces MND alone — and where research continues to provide hope.