COMEDY and science collided in a chat hosted by TV personality Ruby Wax and acclaimed British neurobiologist Colin Blakemore.

Visitors to the Sheldonian Theatre were treated to a funny look at the relationship between neuroscience and mental health on Wednesday.

The pair informed visitors to the Broad Street theatre of the ways brain research plays a key role in the comedian’s life and career.

Mental health advocate Ms Wax also spoke openly to audience members about how she overcame her lengthy battle with depression.

During the 90-minute discussion, Prof Blakemore reflected on his research and medical background. The Professor of Neuroscience at the University of Oxford explored the neuroscience concepts behind mental illness.

The evening event also saw Ms Wax signing copies of her latest book, Sane New World. Her new venture provides readers with a manual on how best to survive the 21st century.

A University of Oxford graduate, Ms Wax gained a Master’s degree in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy from Kellogg College in 2013, studying part-time while doing her shows. She previously gained a postgraduate in Psychotherapy and Counselling from London’s Regents College.

Taking to Twitter, she spoke of her admiration for Prof Blakemore, posting a picture of the pair and tweeting: “Spoke [Sheldonian] about mindfulness to Colin Blakemore. Big cheese neuroscientist – go figure.”

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