Researchers, clinicians, students, patients, caregivers and members of the public are invited to join the open sessions of the IGNITION Network School, taking place in Barcelona on 17 and 18 November 2026. Under the theme “From neuroinflammation to neurodegeneration”, the programme will bring together leading experts in neuroscience, microscopy, autoimmune encephalitis and patient advocacy to explore the latest advances in anti-IgLON5 disease research.
The IGNITION Network School will take place in Barcelona from 16 to 20 November 2026, bringing together researchers from across Europe for a week of training, networking and scientific exchange. While most activities are reserved for members of the IGNITION consortium and invited participants, the sessions on 17 and 18 November will be open to students, researchers, clinicians, patients, caregivers and members of the public interested in neurological diseases.
17 November: Microscopy and Preclinical Research Workshop
The first open session will be held at the Aula Magna of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Barcelona and will focus on innovative technologies and methodologies for neuroscience research.
Participants will have the opportunity to discover state-of-the-art approaches in microscopy and preclinical research through sessions delivered by experts from ZEISS Group and Harvard Bioscience. Topics will include optical sectioning in neuroscience, AI-driven 3D image analysis for neurodegenerative research, and multidisciplinary approaches to refining preclinical studies.
18 November: Patients and Science in Autoimmune Encephalitis
The second open session will take place at the Esteve Auditorium of the IDIBAPS Esther Koplowitz Centre (CEK), bringing together researchers, clinicians and patient representatives to discuss anti-IgLON5 disease and autoimmune encephalitis.
The programme will feature presentations by leading experts, including Francesc Graus, Joan Santamaria, Ellen Gelpí and Ava Easton, covering topics such as the discovery of anti-IgLON5 disease, patient outcomes and quality of life, and the broader patient experience in neurological disorders.
Connecting science, patients and society
The IGNITION Open Sessions want to improve the dialogue between science, healthcare and society. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts, participate in discussions, and learn about the latest advances in neuroscience and neurodegenerative disease research.
The sessions are open to students, researchers, clinicians, patients, caregivers and anyone interested in the field.
Registration
Participation is free of charge, but registration is required. Register here.
We look forward to welcoming you to Barcelona on 17-18 November 2026 for two days of scientific exchange, innovation and collaboration!
