BrainConnect 2026: The University of Buckingham's Inaugural Neuroscience Conference
On 6 June 2026, the University of Buckingham hosted BrainConnect 2026, its inaugural student-led neuroscience conference. The event was a collaborative initiative between the Neurology & Neurosurgery Society, Psychiatry Society, and Neurodiversity Society, led by their respective Presidents, Varunikha Anandan Sangeetha, Haneen Satti, and Ahmed K Helmy. Bringing together students, clinicians, academics, and healthcare professionals, the conference explored a wide range of topics in the field of neuroscience.
The conference featured keynote talks, practical workshops, research presentations, and networking opportunities, providing attendees with a platform for learning, collaboration, and professional development.
The programme commenced with an opening address delivered by the conference lead and Neurology and Neurosurgery President, Varunikha Anandan Sangeetha, who welcomed delegates and outlined the vision behind establishing the University's first neuroscience conference.
Attendees were honoured to hear from Mr Farouk Olubajo, Consultant Neurosurgeon, who delivered a presentation on neuro-oncology and conscious brain surgery, offering insight into one of the most complex and rapidly advancing areas of modern neurosurgery. Dr Mohamed Morsy, Consultant Psychiatrist, also addressed delegates, providing an overview of career pathways within psychiatry and discussing the breadth of opportunities available within the speciality.
A major highlight of BrainConnect 2026 was its interactive workshop programme, which enabled participants to gain practical experience and develop clinical skills through hands-on learning. Workshops delivered throughout the day included:
• Burr Hole and Cranial Access Workshop led by Dr Oyeleye Egunjobi - ST7 Neurosurgey Registrar.
• Scoliosis Fixation and Spinal Instrumentation Workshop led by Mr Alex Gibson - Consultant Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgeon
• Suturing Workshop led by Dr Prince Deepak Okong'o - FY1 Doctor
• Autism/ADHD Workshop led by Sarah J Myhill - Dyslexia Specialist Tutor and Lecturer
• Dyslexia Workshop led by Dr Lois Hills - FY2 Doctor
The workshops offered attendees the opportunity to engage directly with specialists while exploring both surgical and non-surgical aspects of neuroscience-related care.
The conference also provided a platform for student research through oral and poster presentation competitions. Abstract submissions were received from students across a range of institutions, showcasing innovative work and encouraging academic discussion within the neurosciences.
Congratulations are extended to the prize winners:
• Best Oral Presentation – Sriya Gadde
• Best Poster Presentation – Anoushka Pawar
• Runner-up Poster Presentation – Deepankar Bedi
BrainConnect 2026 benefited from the support of numerous individuals who contributed to its success.
Dr Shazia Iqbal served as a judge for the abstract competition and provided valuable support throughout the planning process, and Professor Nigel Adams offered guidance and mentorship to the organising committee and played an instrumental role in supporting the event. Through Professor Adams, the organisers were introduced to Mr Roger Jefcoate, whose generous sponsorship of £600 made a significant contribution towards the successful delivery of the conference.
In recognition of their participation, delegates were also awarded four CPD hours accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
The success of BrainConnect 2026 demonstrated the impact of student-led initiatives in creating opportunities for education, skills development, research dissemination, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through the combined efforts of organisers, speakers, workshop facilitators, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees, the conference established a strong foundation for future events and highlighted the growing interest in neuroscience-related disciplines across the student community.
Following the success of its inaugural year, BrainConnect is set to return in 2027, continuing its mission to inspire the next generation of neuroscientists, clinicians, and healthcare professionals.
