Event Recap: Connecting the Next Generation of Brain Researchers at the EBRAINS Student and Early Career Researcher Networking Event 2026 in Heidelberg, Germany

Organised by the EBRAINS Education Team in collaboration with the EBRAINS Student Ambassadors and supported by the BrainScaleS team at Heidelberg University, the event offered a dedicated space for emerging researchers to exchange scientific ideas, explore career opportunities, and build connections across the brain research community.

Research, Career Development and Networking

The programme combined scientific exchange with practical career guidance and interactive networking activities. A Research Guidance Workshop led by Dr Benjamin Höhne from the Heidelberg Research Service at Heidelberg University introduced participants to funding opportunities for early-career researchers, including European and national schemes, and offered insights into navigating the research funding landscape.

Participants also had opportunities to present their work and discover shared interests through the Science Market and five-minute Lightning Talks. These formats encouraged scientific exchange across disciplines and created opportunities to explore potential collaborations.

Career development continued with an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session, where participants could discuss career pathways, professional challenges, and opportunities within and beyond academia.

Discovering New Technologies and Building Connections

Optional tours of the BrainScaleS neuromorphic computing infrastructure at the European Institute for Neuromorphic Computing (EINC) offered participants a closer look at brain-inspired computing research and the technologies supporting it. Alongside the formal programme, interactive networking activities and a social evening gave participants further opportunities to connect, exchange experiences, and strengthen relationships with peers from across the EBRAINS community.

Supporting the Next Generation of Brain Researchers

By bringing together research presentations, funding guidance, career discussions, and networking, the event highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for students and early-career researchers to develop their skills and build lasting connections.

Taking place directly after the EBRAINS Users Days, the event extended the week’s exchange and collaboration, with a particular focus on supporting the next generation of brain researchers.

The EBRAINS Education Team thanks all participants, speakers, contributors, and organisers especially our colleagues in Heidelberg for making the event possible and so enjoyable!