University research behind BAFTA winning film 'I Swear' takes centre stage

The university’s world-leading‑research was in the spotlight at the BAFTAs on Sunday (22 February), as the film I Swear celebrated an extraordinary three award wins – including Leading Actor and the Rising Star Award for Robert Aramayo, who portrays Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson MBE.

The film brings John’s story to life while showcasing pioneering research led by Professor Stephen Jackson in the School of Psychology. This research demonstrated that targeted electrical stimulation at the wrist can reduce the frequency and intensity of tics. The findings went on to inspire Neupulse – a university spin-out company developing a discreet ‑wrist worn‑ device designed to support people living with Tourette Syndrome.

John took part in the clinical trials here at the university, and a pivotal moment from his visit appears in the film: a scene in which he meets Dr Bàrbara Morera Màiquez, now Co-Founder and Chief Research Officer at Neupulse but then a researcher at the university. The scene reflects years of work exploring how median nerve stimulation can influence brain activity linked to movement and tics.

Supporting researchers at the university to set up spin-out is Nottingham Technology Ventures Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the university that advises on the creation and management helping to turn university research into successful businesses. 

“We are thrilled that I Swear received three BAFTA Awards. Our admiration goes out to lead actor Robert Aramayo – a thoroughly well-deserved win – as well as the entire cast. For Neupulse, this recognition shines a spotlight on Tourette Syndrome and raises awareness of our research on a global stage. Our mission is to empower individuals living with Tourette Syndrome to lead fuller, more independent lives – films like I Swear help foster understanding, raise awareness and bring hope to those impacted by the condition.”

Supporting researchers

Neupulse this week secured £3m in new funding to scale sales and accelerate its path to market. The Neupulse device, now available for preorder, is expected to launch later this year.

Alice MacGowan, CEO of Nottingham Technology Ventures, added: "Our role at Nottingham Technology Ventures is to nurture promising ventures like Neupulse – from idea to impact. Seeing the growing recognition of our spin-outs’ contributions is incredibly rewarding. We’re proud to support entrepreneurs who are pushing boundaries and we’re delighted to see both the university’s work recognised in addition to the awareness raising of Tourette’s.”  

The success of I Swear reflects a remarkable collaborative journey – from foundational research in Psychology and Medicine, to trial participants like John, to the cast and creative team who brought this story to international audiences.

You can watch ITV Central's interview with Dr Barbara Morera, recorded ahead of the BAFTA announcement. 

Find out more about translating research to impact

At Nottingham we have a portfolio of nearly 40 spin-out companies, including 25 launched in the past seven years, translating research into real-world benefits for society, the environment and the economy.

Find out more about Neupulse: Neupulse - Improving the lives of people with Tourettes.