The First iCNS Young Researchers Meeting

15 December 2025

On December 11, 2025, iCNS marked an exciting milestone with its very first Young Researchers Meeting, held at the University of Amsterdam’s Science Park campus. The event brought together the inaugural cohort of iCNS PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers, joined by Principal Investigators Inge Huitinga, Maarten Kole, Mario van der Stelt, and Paul Lucassen. 

The day was all about connection and collaboration. Young researchers met one another for the first time, exchanged ideas with the PIs, and gained insight into the wide range of projects shaping iCNS. The School of Chemical Neuroscience was introduced, followed by an energetic brainstorming session on how this new initiative can best support and inspire early-career researchers. 

A key highlight of the meeting was the selection of the first iCNS Young Researchers Council, which will represent the voices, ideas, and interests of young researchers within the institute. We are proud to congratulate David van Lee (NIN), Chloe LeMaoult (UMCG), and Daan van der Vliet (EMC) on becoming the council’s founding members. Their commitment and leadership will play an important role in shaping both the council and the broader iCNS community. 

In addition to discussion and planning, participants took part in an interactive workshop focused on strengthening presentation skills—complete with an active and fun group exercise. The meeting concluded in a relaxed atmosphere with drinks and snacks, providing plenty of opportunity for informal conversations. 

We look forward to the ideas, initiatives, and collaborations that will grow from this enthusiastic group of young researchers. Their energy and dedication are essential to the future of neuropsychiatric research within iCNS.

Photo of Lab42 by Geert Broertjes