Brandon Farley is a neuroscientist based in Cleveland, Ohio. He earned his Ph.D. in Neuroscience at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the lab of Dr. Mriganka Sur, where he studied brain development and plasticity. He later worked at Biogen in the multiple sclerosis and ALS therapeutic areas, and then spent eight years at Sage Therapeutics. At Sage, he helped develop biomarkers such as EEG and brain imaging methods to support drug discovery and clinical trials, and led a team that advanced drug candidates from the early stages of research into the IND-enabling stage in preparation for clinical trials.

Brandon’s connection to the CACNA1A Foundation is personal. A close family member was diagnosed with episodic ataxia caused by a CACNA1A variant, an experience that opened his eyes to the challenges rare disease families face—finding an accurate diagnosis, managing symptoms that impact daily life, and navigating limited treatment options. Hearing the stories of other families in the CACNA1A community has deepened his appreciation for the foundation’s mission and the power of connection.

Brandon joined the Board of Directors in 2025 and is excited to contribute his background in neuroscience and drug development. He is especially grateful for the network of scientists, clinicians, and advocates he has built over the years, and looks forward to working together to advance research and provide stronger support for those affected by CACNA1A disorders.