For four days, Magdeburg was at the heart of the international neuroscience community. Over 200 researchers from around the world attended the XV Learning & Memory Conference, turning the city into a hub for cutting-edge research, knowledge exchange and inspiration.
After a ten-year break, our renowned conference made a strong comeback. From 29 September to 2 October 2025, the international "who's who" of learning and memory research gathered at the Herrenkrug in Magdeburg. The conference has always been renowned for its excellent scientific contributions and lively discussions, not to mention the unique 'L&M spirit'.
Particular highlights were the keynotes by Anne Churchland, Bong-Kiun Kaang, Nelson Spruston, Onur Güntürkün and Sheena Josselyn — we were delighted to welcome such renowned scientists to Magdeburg.
It was clear that enthusiasm was not something that could be planned. During the symposium, poster discussions and breaks, sparks were ignited, especially among the young talents presenting their research.
Some of them were honoured for their outstanding contributions:
- Jury Prize for Best Poster: Karni Lev Bar-Or
- Peer Poster Prize (voted by participants): Laura Loaiza-Carvajal
- Best Junior Speaker: Fatima Amin
These awards highlight the conference's commitment to promoting young talent and showcasing high-quality research.
In addition to the inspiring presentations given by leading international scientists, the positive atmosphere was celebrated during the joint tour on the Elbe River and at the conference dinner on the last evening, for example.
The discussions, ideas and connections established during the conference will have a lasting impact far beyond Magdeburg. This network could lead to new, groundbreaking research projects in the future, providing impulses that will advance science and strengthen Magdeburg's reputation as an excellent research location.
We are already looking forward to the next conference – L&M 2030 here in Magdeburg.