Lydia Hickman – Winner of BNA Postgraduate Award 2024 – https://www.bna.org.uk/mediacentre/news/celebrating-dedication-bna-prize-winners-2024/
Dr. Lydia Hickman is a rising star in neuroscience, whose groundbreaking research explores the complex intersections of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Her PhD thesis at the University of Birmingham made transformative contributions to our understanding of these conditions, focusing on similarities and distinctions in movement and cognition. Lydia’s work revealed that while both groups share some movement traits, key differences can help refine diagnostic criteria, particularly in distinguishing autistic traits from parkinsonian symptoms.
One of Lydia’s most innovative contributions lies in her exploration of dopamine’s role in movement. Through two pharmacological studies – one with individuals with PD and another involving dopamine receptor blockers—she demonstrated that dopamine influences not just movement speed but its adaptive modulation based on environmental context. Her findings challenge traditional views of dopamine’s function, advancing both theoretical models and practical applications in motor disorder therapies.
Beyond her academic achievements, Lydia exemplifies leadership in Public and Patient Involvement (PPI), collaborating closely with Parkinson’s and autism communities to ensure her research aligns with real-world needs. She co-founded the U21 Autism Research Network, championing diversity and inclusion in autism research, and has been a strong advocate for Open Science, incorporating pre-registration and transparency into her work.
With nine publications, multiple competitive grants, and a record of impactful presentations, Lydia’s academic excellence is matched only by her dedication to fostering inclusive and accessible research. Her exceptional contributions position her as a leader in her field, making her a deserving winner of the BNA Postgraduate Prize.
‘I am thrilled to have been awarded the 2024 BNA Postgraduate Prize. Having presented my PhD plans at BNA 2021 during the pandemic, it is an honour to now be recognised for this work by the BNA committee. My thesis, ‘Movement and Cognition in Autism and Parkinson’s Disease: Similarities, Points of Distinction, and Underlying Biological Mechanisms’, was completed at the Centre for Human Brain Health (University of Birmingham). I am incredibly grateful to my supervisors, Prof. Jennifer Cook and Prof. Joseph Galea, for their unwavering guidance and encouragement throughout the PhD.’ – Lydia Hickman
jencooklab.com 