Young Swiss Society for Neuroscience 

The Early-Career Researchers Symposium (ERS) 2026 took place on September 9th, 2026 in the beautiful city of Fribourg. Approximately 50 members of Switzerland’s neuroscience community were welcomed at the University of Fribourg for scientific exchange and professional development.

The symposium opened with a captivating keynote lecture by Prof. Valerio Zerbi. His lecture explored the noradrenergic control of brain dynamics, walking the audience through complex mechanisms ranging from controlled activation to endogenous locus coeruleus waves.

Major highlights of the day were the three dedicated oral presentation sessions featuring PhD candidates and postdocs. It was especially inspiring to hear about the diverse, high-caliber science being driven by early-career scientists from laboratories across Switzerland, highlighting the immense talent shaping the future of the field. Paige Howell from ETH Zürich delivered an exceptional talk that ultimately earned her the Best Presentation award. Adding a valuable industry perspective, Roche delivered an interactive and insightful sponsor presentation, offering attendees a closer look at the intersection of academic research and commercial application.

The midday poster session provided a fantastic opportunity for all researchers to feature their fascinating work in a highly interactive setting. Attendees eagerly connected with peers, interested to explore the diverse research currently unfolding within the Swiss neuroscience landscape. Viktor Beilmann from the University of Zurich (UZH) was recognized with the Best Poster Award for his outstanding scientific communication and compelling research.

Later in the afternoon, participants broke out into three parallel technical workshops designed to build practical research skills. Depending on their interests, attendees chose between exploring AI workflows for everyday research, mastering vector graphics to create scientific figures, or utilizing Co-Activation Pattern Analysis as a tool to support translational research. The highly interactive format left attendees equipped with fresh, actionable tools to elevate their daily lab work. 

Although the scientific portion of the symposium wrapped up, conversations continued into the evening as attendees gathered at Le Port. Networking over drinks in a relaxed setting, participants reflected on a successful day of shared neuroscientific discoveries and forged new collaborative connections.