EBRAINS Roadmap: shaping the next decade of neuroscience in Europe

At a time when advances in AI are transforming scientific research and healthcare, the Roadmap aims to identify the scientific priorities, technological opportunities and infrastructure needed to advance neuroscience in Europe over the next decade. 

The the EBRAINS Roadmap Symposium had brought together a broad representation of the neuroscience community to discuss these developments and help define the priorities for the coming decade. The EBRAINS RI is now taking this work forward under the leadership of Prof. Katrin Amunts, EBRAINS joint CEO, and Prof. Viktor Jirsa, EBRAINS Chief Scientific Officer.

From community consultation to policy priorities

A writing team has now been established, bringing together volunteers from the community, representatives of the EBRAINS Science and Technology Committee (ESTC) and the Ethics and Society Committee (EESC), and additional experts to ensure coverage of the main research areas.  The team will build on the contributions gathered during the Munich event and the subsequent open community consultation.

What happens next?

• November 2026: The writing team will meet to discuss the drafting process.
• From mid-November 2026: Work will begin on the comprehensive EBRAINS Roadmap, a solid, complete and comprehensive vision for EBRAINS and European neuroscience over the next ten years.
• End of December 2026 / beginning of January 2027: A shorter, high-level policy paper is expected to be finalised and shared with the community.
• Early 2027: The full scientific Roadmap is expected to be completed and distributed. A meeting in Brussels with European Commission representatives is also being planned for 2027 to formally present the high-level strategy.

Scientific themes at a glance

Building on the input received from the community, the Roadmap is expected to address several interconnected strategic themes, concerning science and technological translation. Click on the theme to download the list of proposals grouped under that theme:

• How does brain function emerge from its multiscale architecture?
• How do we build digital brain twins that capture disease mechanisms well enough to guide intervention?
• How do computation, AI, and intelligent infrastructure shape what we can learn about the brain, and what brains can teach machines?
• How do we translate digital brain science into clinical practice and technological innovation?
• How do we ensure the sustainability, accessibility, and societal responsibility of brain research infrastructure?

The full Roadmap will define the scientific challenges, technological opportunities and infrastructure requirements that should guide the development of EBRAINS and strengthen Europe’s position in brain research and innovation.

The writing team

The confirmed members of the Roadmap writing team are listed here.

Further updates on the development of the Roadmap and opportunities for community engagement will be shared through the EBRAINS website and communication channels.

Contacts

For further information please contact: communications@ebrains.eu