Honoring the Past, Enriching the Future The Neurosurgery Research and Education Foundation is a not-for-profit organization created by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. The NREF supports research and education efforts that enhance and conform the critical role neurosurgeons play in improving lives. The NREF is dedicated to providing education to neurosurgeons, funding research into new and existing neurosurgical treatments in order to identify links between best practices and improved outcomes in patient care.