Barriers of the CNS GRS 2026 recap and images.
Thank you to all brain barriers community members for their contributions to an inspiring and fulfilling week at the 2026 Gordon Research Seminar and Gordon Research Conference on Barriers of the CNS, comprising six days of immersion in cutting-edge science, with talks from experts and trainees advancing our understanding of CNS barrier development, evolution, biology, pathology, and therapeutic strategies. The future of CNS barriers research is bright!
Thank you to Dr. Sidar Aydın (University of California- San Diego) and Dr. Gergő Porkoláb (Trinity College, Dublin) for organizing an exceptional GRS, and to Dr. Dionna Williams (Emory University) and Dr. Joe Nicolazzo (Monash University) for curating an outstanding and expansive GRC program. IBBS extends our sincere congratulations to Dr. Anika Hartz (University of Kentucky), who was elected to vice-chair the 2028 GRC with Dr. Joseph Nicolazzo as chair, and Dr. Kathryn Blethen, PhD (Duke University) and Olivia Carpenter (West Virginia University), who were elected to co-chair the 2028 GRS.
During closing remarks, IBBS President Dr. Britta Engelhardt and President-elect Dr. Joe Nicolazzo honored past President Dr. Robert Thorne for his committed service to the Society and his outstanding leadership. IBBS additionally recognized Dr. Sidar Aydın and Dr. Ana Raquel Santa Maria, Ph.D. for their initiative in establishing the functions served by IBBS Steering Council trainee and early career members. Dr. Nicolazzo extended congratulations and gratitude from our community to IBBS founder Dr. Lester Drewes (University of Minnesota) in the form of an Australian rules football signed by numerous attendees.
Congratulations to all conference award winners, listed below!
- IBBS Malcolm Segal Award: Dr. Fareeha Saadi, Ph.D. (Washington University in St. Louis)
- IBBS Danica Stanimirović Award: Cody Lewis (Mayo Clinic)
- David S. Miller Junior Scientist Award: Dr. Benjamin Gastfriend (University of California, San Diego)
- GRC Trainee Awards: Bhawika Sharma Lamichhane, PhD (Stanford University), Olivia Kelly (Vanderbilt University), Thomas Potts (Rutgers University), and Pranav Runwal (Monash University)
