The European Brain Council (EBC) was delighted to participate in the 2024 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS) Forum in Vienna, organised by FENS in collaboration with the Austrian Neuroscience Association (ANA) and the Hungarian Neuroscience Society. This year’s Forum, held from 25-29 June, brought together over 7,000 neuroscientists from around the world to discuss the latest research and foster collaboration.
The FENS Forum is Europe’s largest neuroscience congress, covering all areas of neuroscience from basic to translational research. The Forum featured an exciting programme of plenary and special lectures, scientific symposia, technical workshops, special interest events, career development and networking opportunities and so much more!
Mini-Conference: Prioritising Brain Health in Youth
We kicked off our participation in the FENS Forum with the EBC-led Mini-Conference, “Prioritising Brain Health in Youth: Bringing Neuroscience to Society and Informing Policy”, organised in partnership with FENS. This session explored the numerous unmet needs along mental health care pathways and ways to address them, highlighting the significance of good brain health in young people and the urgent need for action to support their mental health. The event brought together neuroscientists, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, patients and caregivers to raise awareness on brain health, bridging the gap between research, policy, and society.
Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony of the Forum was an impressive mix of cutting-edge research presentations and classical music, offering a glimpse into the future of neuroscience and celebrating the next generation of researchers.
Networking Reception: Enhancing Global Partnerships in Brain Research
EBC hosted a Networking Reception titled “Enhancing Global Partnerships in Brain Research.” This event provided an opportunity to further international collaboration between global stakeholders. EBC President Prof. Suzanne Dickson opened the session, followed by an engaging panel discussion featuring George Barreto (International Brain Research Organization Latin American Regional Committee), Ulrike Busshoff (Coordination & Support Action BrainHealth), John Ngai (NIH Brain Initiative), and Stephanie Kramer (EBC’s Deputy Executive Director). The discussion focused on uniting the brain research community globally and building synergies across continents.
EBC Booth: A Hub of Activity
Throughout the Forum, our booth in the Exhibition Hall was a hub of activity. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about EBC’s mission, projects, and the critical challenges in brain health and research. We shared insights on our work in policy and advocacy and distributed materials to raise awareness about brain health.
We are grateful for the enthusiastic participation and are already looking forward to the next edition of the FENS Forum, set to take place on 4-8 July 2026 in Seville (Madrid).