Say hello to Hello Brain!

Hello Brain! explores the brain's ‘connectome’: how trillions of connections between billions of cells – more than there are stars in the sky – shape our thoughts, behaviours and experiences. Crick scientists are aiming to understand how these connections impact how different species, including humans, interact with each other and the world. 

What does the exhibition cover?

Through a sensory journey from the early beginnings of neuroscience to recent discoveries and technological progress, and exploring key themes such as sleep, pregnancy, old age, and perception, visitors are invited to consider:   

What makes us unique, and what makes us human?

How does our brain change throughout our life?

Do we all percieve reality in the same way? 

The exhibition features hands-on 3D printed brains, knitted neurons (handcrafted by Crick staff and their family/friends!), and floating curtains which mirror the idea of connections between cells in the brain.

To increase the accessibility of Hello Brain!, access resources such as large print, Braille and Easy-Read materials are provided within the exhibition and online, as well as tactile displays. In addition, British Sign Language and Audio Described tours will be available. 

Working with our scientists 

The exhibition highlights Crick research aiming to advance our understanding of the brain, such as the development of organoids and 3D maps of the brain, studying how the brain generates thoughts and understanding why humans and animals act the way they do.

"Labs at the Crick, including my own, are working at the forefront of neuroscience, aiming to uncover the secrets of the brain, from what happens at different life stages to the impact of disease and injury. The Hello Brain! exhibition offers visitors the chance to marvel at what we know, and contemplate what’s still left to discover." Andreas Schaefer, group leader of the Sensory Circuits and Neurotechnology Laboratory at the Crick, and senior advisor for Hello Brain!

Come and visit!

Hello Brain! is open to the public from Wednesday to Saturday, 10:00–16:00 (and until 20:00 on Wednesdays) until 7 December 2024, so bring your family and friends! There's plenty to see, not to mention a lovely café.