AWCBR in Christchurch
Join the Largest Neuroscience Meeting in New Zealand – AWCBR 2025!
The Australasian Winter Conference for Brain Research is returning in 2025, bringing together world-leading neuroscientists, clinicians, and innovators to inspire cutting-edge research and collaboration.
To improve accessibility and foster an even stronger community, AWCBR 2025 is moving to the Garden City – Christchurch, New Zealand! Experience an exciting program featuring groundbreaking research, dynamic networking events, exclusive workshops, and expert-led panels. Present your work through poster and oral sessions, and engage with a global audience.
Travel and childcare support grants are available for students and postdocs, ensuring inclusivity for all. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Christchurch, this is where innovation meets inspiration.
Don’t miss out—be part of AWCBR 2025!
Key Dates
23/03/2025 | Abstract Submissions open |
02/06/2024 | Early Bird Registration Open |
23/06/2025 | Abstract submission deadline |
18/07/2025 | Early bird registration ends |
18/08/2025 | Registration closes |
31/08/2025 | Conference opens |
04/09/2025 | Conference Closes |
Stunning New Venue
We’re thrilled to announce that the Australasian Winter Conference for Brain Research (AWCBR) 2025 will be held at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre! Located in the heart of the Garden City, Te Pae is a world-class venue designed for collaboration and innovation.
With stunning modern architecture, state-of-the-art facilities, and breathtaking views of the Ōtākaro Avon River, Te Pae offers the perfect setting for cutting-edge neuroscience discussions. Enjoy seamless conference experiences with high-tech presentation spaces, premium networking areas, and easy access to Christchurch’s vibrant restaurants, cafes, and green spaces.
A Unique Plenary Experience
Tak W. Mak, OC, PhD, DSc (Hons), FRSC, FRS
Senior Staff Scientist, OCI, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre at University Health Network
Professor, Department of Medical Biophysics & Immunology
University of Toronto
Co-Director, Centre for Oncology and Immunology
Hong Kong Science Park
Honorary Professor, Department of Pathology
School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine
University of Hong Kong
Tak W. Mak is internationally known for his pioneering work on the genetics and molecular biology of cancer and the immune system. In 1984, his group cloned the gene encoding the human TCRβ chain, providing the basis for CAR-T treatment. His team also showed that CTLA4 negatively regulates T cell activation, paving the way for checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy. Most recently, his team established that the brain communicates with the immune system via T and B cells producing acetylcholine.
In the biotech arena, Dr. Mak co-founded Agios Pharmaceuticals and Treadwell Therapeutics. These companies specialize in delineating metabolic vulnerabilities in tumour cells that can be exploited as novel cancer therapies. Two IDH inhibitors are now FDA-approved for AML treatment, and two first-in-class agents targeting aneuploidy in advanced tumours are now in phase II clinical trials.
Dr. Mak has published over 1000 peer-reviewed research papers, holds dozens of patents, and
has won numerous awards.
David Bilkey, PhD
Professor, Department of Psychology
University of Otago
Head of Department of Pyschology (2009 - 2013)
University of Otago
Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship Recipient
Chair (2019 - 2023) , Marsden Fund Council
Professor David Bilkey's general research area is systems neuroscience, with a particular focus on the role of the temporal cortex regions of the brain in memory and learning processes. His research group investigates how the function of the hippocampus and related regions is altered in a model of schizophrenia risk, with a particular focus on the phase coding of information. He is an author on over 130 articles describing this work.
David received a PhD from the University of Otago in 1987. After working as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Washington in 1988 he returned to Otago as a lecturer, where he has worked since. He is a recipient of an Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship which has supported a number of collaborations in Germany. He served as the Head of Department of Psychology from 2009 to 2013, and was chair of the Marsden Fund Council from 2019-2023.
We’re excited to announce that this year’s Plenary Lecture will take place in the UNESCO award-winning heritage building – The Great Hall, Te Matatiki Toi Ora.
This breathtaking venue, rich in history and architectural beauty, will provide a truly inspiring setting for one of the conference’s most anticipated events.
With its stunning stained-glass windows, soaring timber ceilings, and grand ambiance, The Great Hall blends heritage charm with modern prestige. As a space that has long celebrated knowledge and creativity, it is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable plenary session.
Join Us for an exciting workshop
We are excited to announce a valuable upcoming workshop on the Horizon Europe – Brain Health Partnership, taking place in New Zealand. This special session will be presented by Louise C. Parr-Brownlie from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and Justin M. Dean from the Department of Physiology at the University of Auckland. The workshop will focus on what the Brain Health Partnership means for researchers in Aotearoa New Zealand, what participants can expect from this international collaboration, and will conclude with a Q&A session to allow for open discussion and engagement.
The Horizon Europe–Brain Health Partnership is a new partnership in Horizon Europe, pillar II, cluster 1 (health). The Partnership has been under development since 2023. It includes most countries in the European Union, and 8 associated countries, including New Zealand. New Zealand joined the Partnership late in 2024, has subsequently influenced the work plan, and will contribute to the work that will be delivered over the next 10 years. Neurological and mental health disorders are leading causes of disability and mortality in Europe and globally. The Partnership’s vision is improved brain health for all, which is essential for healthcare systems to deliver sustainable outcomes, now and in the future, so that national economies can grow. The Partnership will support multi- and inter-disciplinary research teams to conduct research at the forefront of brain health research on the global stage. Come along to hear about the Partnership, what you can do now to prepare for opportunities, expected activity in the next year, how to stay connected for updates, and to have your questions answered.
Thank you to our Sponsors
Diamond Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
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Award Sponsor
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