Dr. Yolken is the former chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and currently chairs the Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, the nation’s first pediatric research center designed to investigate links between severe mental illness (including schizophrenia and manic depressive disorders) and early childhood viral infections.

Dr. Yolken and ALSPAC will collaborate on the measurement of viral antibodies in serum samples from ALSPAC participants. The purpose of the visit is to define priority assays (antibodies) and participant age from which samples will be drawn.

The visit’s activities will include:

5th May, 2015

3.00 – 4.30 Joint presentation by ALSPAC and Dr. Yolken of the ALSPAC resource and assay capabilities of the Stanley Laboratory. Seminar Room, OS6, Second Floor, Oakfield House.

6th May, 2015

11.00 – 12.00 Research presentation by Dr. Yolken: "Infection, Psychiatric Disorders, and Cognitive Performance-Opportunities for Prevention and Treatment". Seminar Room, OS6, Second Floor, Oakfield House.

There are also opportunities for individual or small group meetings with Dr. Yolken on both days. Those interested in learning about the collaboration or meeting with Dr. Yolken are invited to contact Dr Kasia Kordas.