Who We Are
The IBNS is dedicated to advancing understanding of the biological bases of behavior and fostering collaboration, communication, and mentorship among neuroscientists worldwide. Its annual meetings bring together researchers at all career stages to share discoveries, exchange ideas, and strengthen international networks in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. To encourage broad participation, the IBNS offers several travel grant opportunities for students and early-career researchers, as well as significantly reduced membership and meeting registration fees for scientists from many countries.
THREE REASONS TO JOIN
- Discounted annual meeting registration fees
- Networking and new contacts through our membership database
- Keep up with current IBNS and neuroscience news and events
Learn more about benefits of IBNS membership >>
Letter from IBNS President,
Markus Fendt, Ph.D.
Dear IBNS Members,
With the conclusion of our annual meeting in Tromsø, my term as IBNS President has officially begun. I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for the trust you placed in me through your vote. I am truly honored and will do my utmost to fulfill the role to the best of my ability.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Jill Silverman for her exceptional leadership as IBNS President over the past two years. During her second year in office, I had the privilege of being closely involved in many Society activities and came to appreciate just how much dedication and behind-the-scenes effort the role requires. Her visible impact was particularly evident in the outstanding annual meetings in Panama and Tromsø — each combining scientific excellence with unique and inspiring locations. Jill, thank you for your tireless commitment and personal dedication, from which the Society has greatly benefited.
I would also like to express my deep appreciation to Eelke Snoeren (Chair), Alexa Veenema (Co-Chair), the Program Committee, and all other contributing committees — as well as the IBNS Office team, Marianne Van Wagner and Dawn Stafford — for their work in organizing and delivering a truly memorable meeting in Tromsø. The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, and I personally found the experience both enriching and inspiring.
As this new term begins, we say goodbye to several Council members and committee chairs who have completed their service. I want to thank each of you for your dedication and contributions
— your efforts have been vital to the functioning of the Society. At the same time, I warmly welcome our new Council members, committee Chairs, and Co-Chairs. I am grateful for your commitment and enthusiasm to support IBNS moving forward.
As I shared in my candidate statement, one of my primary goals is to further strengthen the Society’s international diversity. I am pleased that the current round of appointments reflects progress in this area. Nonetheless, certain regions — such as Africa — remain underrepresented. That is why I am particularly excited that next year’s annual meeting will be held in Cape Town, South Africa. Looking further ahead, we aim to choose a location that is more accessible for our members from North, Central, and South America.
Before closing, I would like to address one broader issue. Like many fellow scientists, I am increasingly concerned by the growing challenges science faces globally — not only in terms of shrinking funding, but also through ideological opposition to certain areas of research. Our response must be to uphold rigorous scientific standards and defend academic freedom. IBNS remains committed to promoting excellence in behavioral neuroscience and advancing equity and inclusion for researchers from all backgrounds.
I look forward to an exciting and productive two years ahead, and I want to thank all of you in advance for your support of me and the Society.
With warmest regards,
Markus Fendt
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