About
Professor Kevin Keay is a Professor of Neuroscience and Chief Anatomist at the University of Sydney's School of Medical Sciences, part of the Faculty of Medicine and Health. He serves as Deputy Head of School and Theme Leader for Neuroscience, with membership in the Brain and Mind Centre. His academic qualifications include a BSc(Hons), GradDipScMed(Pain Management), and PhD.
Research focuses on pain mechanisms, neuroimmunology, and anatomical education. Key interests include chronic neuropathic pain, glial-neuronal interactions, and translational studies across species. He investigates placebo/nocebo effects, brainstem pain modulation, and the role of PACAP/VIP neuropeptides in nervous system disorders. Recent work explores sex differences in pain responses and the impact of spinal cord injury on neuroinflammation.
Publications span 40+ years, emphasizing neuroanatomical imaging (7T fMRI), rodent behavioral models, and medical education innovations. Notable contributions include studies on body donor programs, cadaver-based learning, and global health initiatives through international anatomy partnerships. Research also addresses pandemic-era student perceptions and cultural competency training.
Grants include NHMRC funding for pain mechanisms (2020), equipment grants for advanced imaging (2002-2013), and educational innovation grants. Advises current PhD students on topics like viral gene therapy for genetic disorders (Christianson Syndrome) and trigeminal neuropathic pain mechanisms.
Labs/groups include collaborations with Brain and Mind Centre researchers, neuroimaging teams, and international anatomy departments. Active in promoting interdisciplinary research through interprofessional learning and global student exchanges.
