Submissions Open for BNA2027 – Shape the International Festival of Neuroscience
The British Neuroscience Association invites the neuroscience community to submit proposals for symposia and workshops at the International Festival of Neuroscience (BNA2027), taking place in Belfast from 25–28 April 2027.
Submissions open on 1st March 2026, and we encourage prospective organisers to read the submission guidelines carefully and submit early.
BNA2027 will bring together researchers, clinicians, industry partners, policy-makers, and funders from across the global neuroscience community, offering a unique platform to share ideas, foster collaboration, and shape the future direction of the field.
Why submit a session?
Submitting a symposium or workshop proposal is an opportunity to:
- Engage with leading researchers, decision-makers, and stakeholders
- Showcase high-quality, timely neuroscience research or professional expertise
- Support Early Career Researchers (ECRs) and cross-sector collaboration
- Contribute to a diverse, inclusive, and internationally relevant programme
- Play a direct role in shaping one of the world’s leading neuroscience events
All submissions are peer-reviewed, and the programme is highly competitive, reflecting the quality and breadth of the neuroscience community the Festival attracts.
Session types
Symposia
- 3–4 speakers with structured audience Q&A
- Designed to showcase cutting-edge research or thematic advances
- Must include cross-institutional representation and at least one ECR
Workshops
- Interactive, participatory sessions
- Ideal for careers, policy, skills development, research culture, funding, or methods
- Flexible formats encouraged to maximise audience engagement
What the Programme Committee is looking for
In reviewing submissions, the Programme Organising Committee will prioritise sessions that:
- Appeal to a broad audience across career stages
- Include and support Early Career Researchers
- Reflect cross-sector perspectives (academic, clinical, industry, charity)
- Align clearly with Festival themes and submission guidelines
- Demonstrate strong consideration of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Programme Organising Committee is delighted to invite submissions for BNA2027 in Belfast. The International Festival attracts a high standard of proposals. Sessions that are clearly structured, inclusive, and closely aligned with the Festival’s priorities stand out during the review process. We encourage you to engage carefully with the guidelines and look forward to receiving your proposals.
How to submit
- All submissions must be made via the online application portal
- Submissions by email or document will not be accepted
- Submissions open: 1 March 2026
- Full submission guidelines are available here: BNA2027 session submission guidelines
Don’t miss your opportunity
BNA2027 offers a rare chance to contribute to a truly international, inclusive, and high-impact neuroscience programme. We encourage early submissions and careful review of the guidelines to maximise your chances of success.
Submit your session and help shape the future of neuroscience.
