At the 2024 Brain Innovation Days, the session titled “Accelerating Brain Research and Innovation in Europe and Globally” brought together policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, and funding experts to discuss the future of brain health research in the European Union and beyond.
Moderated by Frédéric Destrebecq (European Brain Council), the panel featured Shiva Dustdar (European Investment Bank), Niklas Blomberg (Innovative Health Initiative), Magda Chlebus (EFPIA), Pavel Balabanov (European Medicines Agency), and Ulrike Bußhoff (Coordinator of the CSA BrainHealth).

Everyone in this room is either directly affected or knows somewhat or cares for someone or loves someone who is affected by a brain condition. This is the stage we are operating on. We have heard about gaps and hurdles, but there is a very clear need for research in that area.
Dr. Ulrike Busshoff
The discussion highlighted current advances, opportunities, and barriers in brain research and innovation. Panellists underscored how crucial transnational collaboration, innovative funding mechanisms, and integration of brain health into broader health and economic policies are. Strategies for fostering public-private partnerships, streamlining regulatory processes, and enhancing Europe’s attractiveness for neuroscience research were also explored.
The session reinforced the critical importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to address the societal and economic burden of brain disorders and to drive impactful innovation.