Research summit: So what? Turning epilepsy research into real-world impact

The Epilepsy Research Institute proudly presents our inaugural Research Summit on 16 July 2026 at the Royal College of Physicians in London. This one-day event will explore how epilepsy research can be designed, delivered and translated so that it delivers meaningful improvements in the lives of people affected by epilepsy. With advances such as artificial intelligence and genetic therapies, it is a hugely exciting time for epilepsy research, with more knowledge and innovation than ever before. Yet despite this progress, many people with epilepsy continue to face gaps in diagnosis, treatment and support, all of which have a significant impact on quality of life. The Summit will focus on one key question: “So what?”, moving the conversation beyond discovery and into real-world impact. The event will showcase examples of research that have influenced practice or policy and bring the epilepsy research community together to identify what enables research to lead to meaningful change. It will include themed sessions exploring how advances in data science, artificial intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping our understanding of epilepsy, alongside talks showcasing how research is being translated into new treatments, approaches to care and improvements in clinical practice. Delegates will gain insights from leading experts and build new connections, driving collaboration to radically advance epilepsy research for real-world impact. We are delighted that Professor Viktor Jirsa has agreed to chair the summit as well as giving a keynote speech on the development of Virtual Brain Twin technologies – from the Human Brain Project to EBRAINS – and their impact on personalised brain models and epilepsy treatment. He has been conducting prize-winning research in the field of neuroscience for over 30 years, publishing over 200 scientific articles. He will be joined by an exciting lineup of guest speakers from across the epilepsy field, with a programme of talks and panel discussions exploring key priorities and the latest developments in epilepsy research. We hope you can join us for this unmissable event before the summer break.