ISN Advanced School 2026

The ISN Advanced School 2026 blends cutting-edge science with immersive training and professional growth. Across thematic scientific modules, participants will explore mechanisms of stress, RNA dynamics, and proteostasis in the nervous system. The programme integrates hands-on laboratory experiences designed to deepen experimental confidence with soft-skill workshops that strengthen communication and career readiness. Poster sessions and interactive challenges will support scientific exchange and collaboration. Built-in community time will foster long-lasting connections.

Full schedule details will be confirmed closer to the event.

Dates: 25 to 31 October 2026
Venue: University of Algarve, Campus Gambelas, Faro, Portugal
 

Audience
The course is aimed at PhD students and early-stage postdoctoral researchers who want to start using or enhance their knowledge of neurochemical mechanisms underlying brain function and disease.
 

Scientific Focus
An overview of the scientific themes: stress, RNA, proteostasis, brain function and disease, delivered through integrated lectures and discussions.
 

Hands-On Experience
Participants will engage in practical, small-group laboratory activities selected from a curated list of cutting-edge techniques.
 

Professional Development
A series of soft-skill workshops covering communication, career strategy, grant writing, and research integrity.
 

Scientific Exchange
Two poster sessions will provide dynamic opportunities to share your research and exchange ideas with peers and experts.
 

Interactive Challenges
A team-based exercise to practise skills in real scientific contexts.
 

Networking & Community
Built-in social time, including meals, receptions, and organised cultural activities.

Chair :
Clévio Nóbrega ABC-Ri / FMCB, Portugal Neurodegeneration molecular mechanisms

Organising Committee:
Marta Vitorino ABC-Ri / FMCB, Portugal Neurogenesis 
 

Sara Carvalhal ABC-Ri / FMCB, Portugal Neurodevelopment 
 

Soraia Barão ABC CoLAB / ABC-Ri, Portugal Neurodevelopment 
 

Joana Apolónio ABC / ABC-Ri / FMCB, Portugal Epigenetics 
 

Mónica Fernandes ABC-Ri / FMCB, Portugal Brain cancer 
 

Carolin Hoffmann ABC-Ri/FMCB, Portugal Neuroimmunology
 

Emanuela Pasciuto VIB & University of Antwerp, Belgium Immune-brain plasticity, neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration
 

Carina Soares-Cunha ICVS / University of Minho, Portugal Brain circuits and neuron-glia adaptations 
 

Carlos B. Duarte CNC / University of Coimbra, Portugal Synapse biology
 

Joana Ferreira MIA / University of Coimbra, Portugal Synapse nanoscale organization 
 

Evgenia Salta Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, The Netherlands Neurogenesis in Alzheimer’s disease 
 

Vered Kellner Medical University of Vienna, Austria Neurodevelopment 
 

Matthew Holt i3S, Portugal Neuroplasticity 
 

Sara Calafate ICVS / University of Minho, Portugal Neuronal circuits
 

Godefroy Devevey ICArEHB / University of Algarve, Portugal Grants writing 
 

Liesbeth Aerts Freelance, Belgium Science communication 

We are grateful to our sponsors and partners: 
 

Registration link: ISN Advanced School 2026 – Fill out the form