Patrick Kennedy's New Mission To Unite Neuroscientists In "Inner Space"
WOONSOCKET, R.I. (AP) - Former Rhode Island Congressman Patrick Kennedy is trying to unite neuroscientists, government and advocacy groups to improve funding and research in brain science, in what he calls a "moonshot to inner space."
The 43-year-old son of the late Massachusetts Sen. Edward Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy will convene the nation's top neuroscientists this month in a conference in Boston to unveil a 10-year plan for the field. It's intended to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his uncle's call to send a man to the moon.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Kennedy calls it a "fundamental moment" for the nation to decide to invest in learning more about how the brain works. He calls it a national security issue that will ensure the health of military troops suffering from brain injuries.
(© Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)