Listen to our new Brain Talks episode! Positioning Brain Health at the Heart of Europe’s Research Agenda

‘We are now at a turning point with how neuroscience progresses, and it’s only now that we can start to harvest and develop treatments. But we really need to focus and improve basic neuroscience because it’s way more difficult to develop a drug for the nervous system than for all other organs.’ -Prof. Roger Adan, (UMC Utrecht)

The latest episode of Brain Talks brings together leading voices from across Europe to examine the future of brain research at a pivotal moment for the continent. Host Sam Pauly is joined by Prof. Roger Adan (Professor of Molecular Pharmacology, Dept Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht), Thomas Ryan (Advocacy Committee Chair, Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS); Board Member, European Brain Council), and Sabine Hölter-Koch (Head Behavioural Unit German Mouse Clinic (GMC), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Germany; EBRA PREMOS Cluster Coordinator) to discuss how Europe can secure its place as a global leader in neuroscience and innovation.

The episode explores the urgent need for increased investment in fundamental brain science, the unique challenges of developing therapies for neurological diseases, and the opportunities presented by new digital tools and research methods. Guests highlight the ongoing ethical debates around animal research, emphasizing the importance of clear communication between scientists, policymakers, and the public to dispel misconceptions and ensure responsible progress.

Key themes include the critical role of academic freedom, the impact of global events on research collaboration, and the necessity of supporting young scientists and patient engagement in shaping the future of brain health. The discussion underscores that Europe’s competitiveness, economic growth, and capacity to address the rising burden of brain diseases all depend on bold, coordinated action to strengthen research and innovation.

Tune in to discover how Europe can empower its researchers, foster ground-breaking discoveries, and secure a thriving future for brain science and health.