Objective

The objective of the Foundation is directed towards funding research into the cause, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease or malfunction of the brain, spine and nerves.

The Foundation

The NRF Neurosurgical Research Foundation Inc. was formed in 1963 and was the first of its kind in Australia. The objective of the Foundation is directed towards funding research into the cause, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease, injuries or malfunction of the brain, spine and nerves.

Mission Statement

  • To promote, foster, develop and assist the study of all matters related to neurosurgery.

  • To encourage, stimulate and aid research and investigation into such matters and to stimulate public interest in neurosurgery.

  • To cooperate with other organisations in neurosurgical work and research.

  • To encourage Post-Graduate study in neurosurgery.

  • To assist the NRF Chairs of Research that have been established at various research institutions, universities and hospitals.

  • To raise funds for the above purposes.

Neuroscience researchers are looking for ways to improve treatments which can save lives of children and adults living with these neurosurgical and neurological conditions.

Research area

  • Brain tumours: improving treatments to impede tumour growth and enhance quality of life. To find out more and to donate visit our NRF Brain Tumour Research
  • Stroke, brain haemorrhage and aneurysms: developing surgical treatments. Find out more about our NRF Stroke Research and donate to our appeal.
  • Paediatric research: identifying trends to help improve leading to improving treatment outcomes for children with brain disorders or early signs of neurosurgical issues. To find out more and to donate visit our NRF Paediatric Neurosurgical Research page.
  • Neurotrauma:
    • Spinal cord injury: as a result of sporting or car accidents
  • Neurodegeneration:
    • Parkinson's disease: understanding and slowing down the progression of this condition. Find out more about our NRF Neurodegeneration Research and donate to our appeal.
    • Concussion: how to stop the neurodegeneration in head trauma caused by concussion

Researchers are looking for cures, improved treatments, and are developing drugs which are progressing from the laboratory to clinical trials, resulting in better outcomes for patients and saving lives.

You can find out more about these projects and how you can help us save lives by reading our current key areas of research.

You can also access our latest NRF information brochure.

Operations Fund Policy 2022

The NRF was established in 1963 and since inception it has made grants in excess of $10 million to support neurosurgical research and to establish academic research positions at the University of Adelaide and Uni SA.

By 2007 a reserve of $1 million had accumulated by prudent financial management and investments. The Board resolved to formalise the sustainability of the NRF by setting aside the $1 million as a 'Corpus.' These funds are now managed by an independent investment manager, with additional funds added and through growth are now $4.4 million and work as the 'Operation Fund'. The investment earnings on the 'Operation Fund" are used to fully cover the administrative expenses of the Foundation.

We work closely with people suffering from neurosurgical disease and disorders – and their loved ones – by supporting individual fundraising efforts. Get in touch to find out how NRF can support you.

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