Robert Drake

Dr. Robert Drake is a neurobiologist and Senior Research Associate at the University of Bristol's School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience.2 His research focuses on chronic pain, particularly exploring how injury affects brain function to cause chronic pain.1 Dr. Drake was awarded a £300k research fellowship in February 2022 to investigate the mechanisms of chronic pain development, with a specific interest in sex differences.1

Dr. Drake's expertise includes:

• Pain and nociception
• Chronic pain
• Neurophysiology
• Affective and behavioral neuroscience
• Electrophysiology2

His current research interests involve investigating brain mechanisms that contribute to vulnerability in developing chronic pain and mental health issues. He is particularly interested in cortical areas that regulate sensory processing and behavior, enabling adaptation in changing environments or physiological states.2

Dr. Drake has developed experimental techniques for monitoring and manipulating neuronal activity in behaving animals, allowing him to study pain mechanisms from single neurons to animal behavior.2 His work aims to improve understanding of nociceptive, emotional, and cognitive systems to identify new therapeutic targets for chronic pain treatment.2

In addition to his research, Dr. Drake expresses interest in collaborating with people who have lived experience of chronic pain and mental health issues, as well as pharmaceutical and digital health technology companies, to refine his research agenda and translate findings into practical applications for patients.2