You’re Invited

Positioning Your Neuroscience Discovery for Successful Drug Development

A one-day free short course and introduction to a unique funding and support opportunity for principal investigators (PIs) in Europe interested in or currently developing a therapeutic for Parkinson’s disease or autism. University technology transfer staff in Europe assisting PIs may also attend.

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Sponsored by SPARK NS

SPARK NS, an independent nonprofit dedicated to advancing promising discoveries in neuroscience from the lab to the clinic, is sponsoring a short course for principal investigators from across Europe to gain insight into what you can do to position your discovery to become an approved product that directly benefits patients. You’ll also be introduced to a unique translational research funding and support opportunity: SPARK NS two-year programs that provide up to $2,000,000 in milestone-based funding, education in drug development, mentorship from industry expert advisors, and scientific and business networking opportunities.

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What You’ll Learn

How to acquire the knowledge and know-how you need to translate your discovery into drug development

How to position and present your discovery so its value is recognized by funders of translational research and industry

Important Information

You must apply and be accepted to attend. Applying is easy. Apply now.

Who can attend

Principal investigators in Europe who are interested in or currently developing a therapeutic for Parkinson’s disease or autism are eligible to attend. Principal investigators pursuing therapeutics for other neurological disorders with therapeutic potential for Parkinson’s disease or autism are also eligible to attend. Staff at university technology transfer offices in Europe who assist principal investigators with therapeutic development are also eligible to attend.

You must apply and be accepted to attend. Applying is easy. Apply now.

Short course, accommodations, and meals are free

There is no fee to attend the short course. In addition, SPARK NS will pay for hotel accommodations for up to two nights (Thursday, March 20, 2025, and Friday, March 21, 2025), host a reception and dinner on Thursday, and provide breakfast and lunch during the short course on Friday.

Travel allowance

Transportation arrangements to and from Pisa are the responsibility of the attendee. However, a travel allowance of EUR 300 will be available after completion of the short course and a short-course evaluation.

Language

All presentations will be in English.

Important Dates and Times

Event times are subject to minor adjustments. Any changes will be communicated in advance.

  • Application portal opens

  • Application deadline

  • Accepted applicants will be notified

  • Hotel check-in (times may vary based on hotel)

  • Welcome reception and dinner

  • Short course

Questions about this short course?

Learn more about SPARK NS programs

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Follow SPARK NS on LinkedIn

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