Reflections on attending FENS2024 by one of our BNA Scholars, Dipa Begum

23rd Aug 2024

A FENS-nomenal conference!

Attending the 2024 FENS Forum was a stimulating experience that offered a unique blend of cutting-edge science, networking, and personal growth opportunities. Here’s a glimpse into my experience at the biggest neuroscience conference in Europe, held in the stunning city of Vienna, Austria.

Arrival and First Impressions

Walking into the Messe Wien conference venue, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation. Researchers, scientists, and students from around the world gathered, each bringing their unique perspectives and shared excitement. The registration area was buzzing with activity as attendees collected their badges. As a BNA scholar, I am proud to share that the sheer diversity of the crowd was immediately apparent, reflecting the global nature of the neuroscience community. The opening ceremony was surprising and spectacular, with a grand performance of Viennese Opera kicking off the week!

Opening Plenary Lecture

The following opening plenary lecture by Professor Viviana Gradinaru was of particular interest to me. The talk discussed and showcased non-invasive bioengineering techniques for neurodevelopmental and neurogenerative disorders, one of which, using PHP, successfully passed the blood-brain barrier. As a PhD student whose research focuses on drug development for delivery across the blood-brain barrier, I found this talk exciting and hopeful- as research such as this inch us closer towards the goal of ultimately effectively treating neurological disorders.

Plenary Lectures

The conference day to day started with a plenary lecture featuring renowned experts in the field. These sessions offered insights into ground-breaking research and future directions. A particular favourite of mine was on spontaneous brain activity by Professor Maurizio Corbetta. The talk emphasised how the majority of the brain’s energy is consumed by spontaneous activity, and that this activity was organised in set spatiotemporal patterns that reflect stimulus-evoked activity. This talk not only shared their current findings but also pulled upon past research by other groups. This was a great reminder and emphasised the importance of innovation and collaboration in advancing our understanding of the brain.

Scientific Symposiums

The conference schedule was packed with symposiums and workshops. These smaller, more focused sessions cover various topics, from molecular neuroscience to artificial intelligence. Choosing which sessions to attend was challenging, given the wealth of options! Each session provided an opportunity to delve deeper into specific areas of interest, learn about the latest research findings, and engage in discussions with experts and those who shared an interest. One of the most interesting symposiums I attended was about the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Despite being unrelated to my field, I was intrigued by the speaker’s interdisciplinary research. In particular, I was surprised and immersed by the research shared by Dr Corrine Benakis, who showed that metabolites produced by the microbiota can act as strong neuroimmunomodulators in stroke.

Poster Presentations

One of FENS's most interactive aspects was the poster presentation sessions. The poster sessions were always bustling with over 4000 posters presented throughout the week! During my poster presentation, I was provided with the opportunity for in-depth, one-on-one conversations that fostered a stimulating and reflective environment. It was a chance to get feedback, share ideas, and even spark new collaborations.

Exhibits and Booths

The exhibition hall was another highlight, showcasing the latest technologies and tools in neuroscience research. From advanced imaging equipment to software for data analysis, the exhibits offer a glimpse into the future of neuroscience. Technology demos provide hands-on experiences, allowing attendees to explore new methods and techniques that could enhance their research.

Networking Opportunities

Networking is a key component of any conference, and the FENS forum was no exception. Coffee breaks, lunches, and evening receptions provide informal settings to meet fellow attendees. These interactions can lead to valuable connections, whether you’re a student seeking advice from a seasoned researcher or a scientist looking to collaborate on a new project. My favourite time was the BNA Members Social at Das Loft. The sense of our community was palpable – and the views of the Vienna skyline weren’t bad either!

Personal Growth and Inspiration

Beyond the scientific content, attending FENS was an opportunity to step out of my daily routine, immerse myself in a stimulating environment, and gain fresh perspectives. Whether presenting my research, learning from others, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the experience is both professionally rewarding and personally enriching. As the conference came to a close, I felt like I was leaving with new knowledge, new connections, and a renewed sense of purpose in my scientific endeavours.

I want to wholeheartedly thank the BNA, who funded my attendance and poster presentation at FENS 2024 as a BNA Scholar. Being a BNA scholar has provided me with incredible opportunities to be part of this vibrant community dedicated to neuroscience research.