
Programme
AWCBR 2026 Programme
The conference programme is now available, providing a full outline for the meeting. Please note that the Programme is subject to change.

Lunchtime Information Sessions:
Monday, 31st August, 1pm:
Neurological Foundation Grant Information Session
Rich Easton will provide an update on Neurological Foundation (NF) grant funding opportunities, and introduce a number of new grants. He will go over how the NF grant review process works, including how grants are reviewed and a few ‘tips / tricks’ for successful applications.
The Neurological Foundation is a New Zealand charity dedicated to funding neurological research and education. For over 50 years, the Foundation has supported world leading research in Aotearoa. Beyond funding vital research, the Foundation invests heavily in the future. By supporting emerging researchers, providing specialist grants, and supporting important resources like the Human Brain Bank, the Foundation plays a unique and essential role in driving the next generation of neuroscientific breakthroughs across the motu.
Tuesday, 1st September, 1pm:
Horizon Europe – Brain Health Partnership in New Zealand
Come along to hear about the Partnership, what you can do now to prepare for 2027 funding opportunities, the expected application process and timelines for the 2027 funding round, how to join a consortium, and how to stay connected for updates.
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, and was launched in January 2026. It includes most countries in the European Union, and eight associated countries, including New Zealand. New Zealand joined the Partnership late in 2024, has subsequently influenced the workplan, and is contributing 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.
