ECNP Podcast series

Neuroscience research: bridging lab and clinic

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0200

This podcast with guest speaker Sabine Hölter‑Koch, Germany, and host Luisa Klahn, Sweden, is part of the Brains On Brains podcast series from ECNP. In this episode, they discuss the value of rigorous preclinical research, the role of translational models, and the challenges facing animal research today. They explore the ECNP Course on Neuroscience research, designed to strengthen methodological skills, foster multidisciplinary exchange, and support responsible, future‑ready science.

More information about the ECNP Course on Neuroscience research: https://knowledge-hub.ecnp.eu/all-courses/neuroscience-research-exploring-models-and-methodologies-translational-neuroscience

Brains On Brains podcast series: The ECNP podcast series brings you conversations with some of the leading researchers in applied neuroscience, discussing their work, their career, their vision on the field, and why they do what they do.

Views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the official position of ECNP. The content of this podcast should not be used in any way as the basis for treatment decisions.

Neuromodulation in psychiatry: from evidence to practice

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0100

This podcast with guest speakers Tiago Costa, United Kingdom, and Piotr Jazdzyk, Poland, and host Luisa Klahn, Sweden, is part of the Brains On Brains podcast series from ECNP.

In this episode, they explore how neuromodulation—from ECT and TMS to emerging techniques—offers powerful, evidence‑based options for severe and treatment‑resistant depression. They discuss clinical impact, training gaps, structural barriers, and how ECNP’s new online course aims to equip clinicians and researchers to use these life‑changing interventions more confidently.

More information about the ECNP Course on Neuromodulation: https://knowledge-hub.ecnp.eu/all-courses/mechanism-clinical-application-psychiatry

Making sense of science

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0100

This podcast with guest speaker Marco Solmi, Canada, and host Michele De Prisco, Spain, is part of the Brains On Brains podcast series from ECNP. How important is it to summarise data in a world where thousands of new findings are produced every day? Can we generate new knowledge from existing information? What should we be aware of when reading a meta-analysis? In this episode, Michele De Prisco and Marco Solmi discuss the role of meta-research in modern psychiatry, explore the strengths and limitations of these approaches, and reflect on the future of knowledge synthesis.

Epigenetics, stress, and resilience

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Elisabeth Binder, Germany, explores how stress leaves lasting biological marks through genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. In conversation with Jelena Brasanac, Germany, she discusses how discoveries in stress-related genes and pathways, such as FKBP5, have paved the way toward a deeper understanding of vulnerability, resilience, and the promise of personalised psychiatry. She also reflects on the role of science in society and how research can shape narratives around mental health, offering a thoughtful perspective on the future of the field.

Conceptualising mental disorders: why psychiatry needs more than one lens

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0100

What does it mean to call something a “mental disorder”? Are biological explanations enough? In this episode, psychiatrist and philosopher of psychiatry Awais Aftab, USA, joins host Stefan Jerotic, Serbia, to unpack competing models of mental illness, the value of explanatory pluralism, how patient perspectives reshape psychiatric understanding and how conceptual clarity can make psychiatry more humane and scientifically grounded.

Clinician 2.0: Is data science defining the future of mental health?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0100

This podcast with guest speaker Joaquim Radua, Spain, and host Michele De Prisco, Spain, is part of the Brains On Brains podcast series from ECNP.
Is the future of psychiatry being shaped by data science? How can predictive models and neuroimaging support clinical care? What role will artificial intelligence play in transforming mental health research?

In this episode, Michele De Prisco and Joaquim Radua discuss the intersection of psychiatry, neuroscience, and statistics, explore the promise and limits of AI, and reflect on the future of personalized mental health care.

A long way to go: insights from longitudinal studies in bipolar disorders

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0200

This podcast with speakers Tomas Hajek, Canada, Danella Hafeman, USA, Hanne Lie Kjærstad, Denmark, and host Luisa Klahn, Sweden, is part of the Congress Preview podcast series from ECNP.

Longitudinal studies help scientists understand why the course and outcomes of bipolar disorder vary so widely. In this episode, the speakers discuss brain changes, cognitive impairments, and mobile sensing, sharing insights from large, multi-modal cohort studies. They highlight how early markers and modifiable factors can guide prevention and treatment. Join them for their symposium at the 2025 ECNP congress in Amsterdam.

Psychedelics and plasticity: from synapses to cognition

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0200

This podcast with speakers Linda Simmler, Switzerland, Frederick Barret, United States, and host Friederike Holze, Switzerland, is part of the Congress Preview podcast series from ECNP.

They explore the therapeutic potential of psychedelics like psilocybin, discussing both preclinical and clinical research. Topics include synaptic plasticity, neural circuits, and the role of psychedelics in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. The conversation highlights key challenges such as establishing causal links between neuroplasticity and therapeutic effects, predicting patient responses, and navigating public perception and funding. Join them for their symposium at the 2025 ECNP congress in Amsterdam.

AI and mental health: a philosophical perspective on the future of healthcare

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0200

This podcast with guest speaker Alberto Giubilini, United Kingdom, and host Michele De Prisco, Spain, is part of the Brains On Brains podcast series from ECNP.
Can AI act as a moral advisor in psychiatry? What consent and equity dilemmas do we face? Should we fear or embrace these tools?

In this episode, Michele De Prisco and Alberto Giubilini explore AI ethics in mental health, share insights, and envision the future of AI-driven psychiatry.

Energising the mind: linking mitochondria and mental health

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0200

In this episode, Martin Picard, USA, from Columbia University, shares his academic journey into mitochondrial psychobiology and its groundbreaking links to mental health, with postdoctoral researcher and Early Career Academy member Jelena Brasanac, Germany. He discusses the role of mitochondria in stress, mental health, and mood, explaining how mitochondrial health could reshape approaches to treating mental health disorders. He also offers insights on leadership in academia and practical advice for early career scientists, making this conversation a valuable listen for anyone interested in the future of mental health science.

The Precision Psychiatry Roadmap: Towards a biology-informed framework for mental disorders

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +0200

In this Podcast episode, host Silvia Bruzzone, Denmark, is joined by Martien Kas, the Netherlands, and Hugh Marston, Germany, to discuss their recent publication in Molecular Psychiatry: “Precision Psychiatry Roadmap: Towards a Biology-Informed Framework for Mental Disorders.”

Together, they examine the shortcomings of current diagnostic systems in psychiatry and present the vision behind the Precision Psychiatry Roadmap initiative led by ECNP. The conversation explores how combining biological, behavioural, and symptomatic data can revolutionise mental health care—paving the way for more personalised, effective treatments.

You can find the full article here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-025-03070-5

Pain and pleasure: unravelling the complexities of opioids

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0200

What is the role of neuroscience during today’s opioid epidemic? Join host Chiara Montemitro, Sweden, for an essential conversation with Siri Leknes, Norway, as she reflects on her diverse journey to a better understanding of pain and pleasure while addressing the staggering rise in opioid-related deaths. Discover the personal and professional insights that shaped Leknes’ career, including candid reflections on the challenges she faced and the complexities of academia.

Mind-body connection: unravelling the link between depression and physical illness

Mon, 05 May 2025 10:00:00 +0200

Tune in to this captivating podcast episode featuring Prof. Brenda Penninx, the Netherlands, a renowned professor of psychiatric epidemiology. Brenda engages in a stimulating conversation with Marieke Klein, The Netherlands, sharing her scientific journey and groundbreaking research on depression. Discover how interdisciplinary research is paving the way for personalized mental health treatments. Brenda also offers a glimpse into her illustrious career and offers valuable advice to aspiring scientists. Don't miss this inspiring and informative discussion!

Virtual reality in neuroscience: are we already living the future?

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0200

Is virtual reality already a tool we can use to study psychiatric disorders? What challenges do we need to consider? Should we be concerned, or can we be optimistic about the application of these technologies? In this episode, hosted by Dr. Michele De Prisco, Spain, Prof. Kamilla Miskowiak, Denmark, shares her passion and expertise in using virtual reality to study cognitive impairment in psychiatric conditions. She provides inspiring advice for both young and experienced researchers and offers her vision for the future of research in this exciting field.

Decoding depression: the serotonin solution

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0100

Does serotonin hold the key to mental health treatment? Elias Eriksson, Sweden, recipient of the 2024 ECNP Neuropharmacology Award, guides us through the science of serotonin reuptake inhibitors, passionately defending the serotonin theory of depression and addressing recent controversies in the field. Alongside host Chiara Montemitro, Sweden, they delve into clinical implications, the significance of biomarkers, and gender's impact on treatment outcomes. Plus, gain invaluable insights for young researchers!

Transforming psychiatry: inflammation, platform trials, and the power of science communication

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Join Prof. Carmine Pariante of King’s College London as he speaks with postdoctoral researcher and ECA member Jelena Brasanac from Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin. Together, they explore his pioneering research on the role of inflammation in mental health and the potential of platform trials to develop new mental health interventions. Prof. Pariante also highlights the importance of science communication through his Inspire the Mind initiative, offering valuable insights and advice for early career scientists navigating this evolving field.

Insulin's impact on brain and behaviour: Can mice help us understand more?

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0100

Dysregulated insulin signalling affects somatic diseases including Type 2 diabetes and obesity, however has also been implicated in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. In this podcast, Simone Macrì, Italy, and Mairéad Sullivan, Ireland, discuss the role of insulin signalling in brain, and the value of animal models in understanding insulin-behaviour links. They are both part of the PRIME (Prevention and Remediation of Insulin multimorbidity in Europe) project, which aims to better understand insulin-brain interactions.

My incredible journey with lithium — over 50 years of research and treatment

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Janusz Rybakowski, Poland, and Kosma Sakrajda, Poland, discuss lithium's current and historical background in clinical practice and science. Based on the over 50 years of Janusz Rybakowski's career, they delve into pioneering research, the progress made in understanding the lithium mode of action over the years, and underline the new research directions. Janusz also shares his clinical and scientific experience and advises young scientists on career development.

Antidepressant discontinuation, burnout, stress and resilience

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0200

What do stress and resilience have in common? What is burnout and what are the challenges of studying it? How can different online platforms help researchers with literature research and psychiatric patients to better understand the medications that they’re prescribed? In this conversation, expert Christiaan Vinkers, the Netherlands, guides us through the world of stress and resilience, as well as his inspiring side projects. Joined by PhD student Silvia Bruzzone, Denmark, Christiaan offers invaluable advice to Early Career Scientists, shedding light on both the academic and practical aspects of studying mental health.

Early life stress, pet therapy, and diversity in Neuroscience

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0200

In this episode neurobiologist Francesca Cirulli, Italy, shares with PhD student Silvia Bruzzone, Denmark, her personal academic journey and her most interesting findings relating early life stress factors to vulnerability to mental disorders. She also tells us about some of her many different side projects, including pet therapy to support children with autism and the ALBA network, a network of brain scientists aiming to promote diversity and equity in neuroscience. Throughout her conversation with Silvia, Francesca gives many valuable advice to early career scientists as well.

Neuroscience redefined: stories of inclusion

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0200

Dive into this transformative podcast, “Neuroscience redefined: stories of inclusion” with Ilya Smolensky and Katherine Deane, hosted by Rosanne Ausems. Ilya shares his inspiring journey with cerebral palsy, sparking a broader conversation on disabilities in research. Discover Katherine's ground-breaking work assessing lab accessibility, revealing shocking disparities. This episode is your invitation to join the movement towards a more inclusive future in neuroscience, offering real stories, impactful research, and a compelling call to action.

Read Ilya's story: https://ow.ly/8jct50SM9Pm

Access guidelines: https://ow.ly/CqUt50SM9Pl

ALBA Network: https://ow.ly/88m050SM9Uh

From neuropeptides to brain circuits in anorexia nervosa

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0200

In this podcast episode, neurobiologist and pharmacologist Roger Adan, The Netherlands, talks with PhD student Silvia Bruzzone, Denmark, about his scientific findings in the field of eating behavior and disorders. Roger tells us about his journey in research, starting from his early studies on neuropeptides to his current goal, unraveling the brain circuits involved in anorexia nervosa.

Pioneering pathways in psychiatry: the intersection between immunology and psychiatry

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0200

Journey through the fascinating world of psychiatry research with Professor Marion Leboyer, France, a trailblazer in genetic research for psychiatric disorders and a proponent of the emerging field of immunoneuropsychiatry. In this podcast, Marion, France, discusses with Aiste Lengvenyte, France, her initial studies into autism genetics, and the current work on the intersection of immunology and psychiatry, offering insight into the evolution and future of the discipline.

Modernising ADHD and the future of applied neuroscience

Thu, 02 May 2024 09:00:00 +0200

In this podcast, Barbara Franke, the Netherlands, and Kosma Sakrajda, Poland, delve into the ongoing efforts to modernise the concept of ADHD. Barbara shares insights into the current research and the ECNP Course on a modernised concept of ADHD. They also talk about the evolving landscape of neuroscience, highlighting future challenges and opportunities for the field. Additionally, Barbara dives into her scientific career experiences and gives valuable guidance for early career scientists.

ADHD course: www.ecnp.eu/research-innovation/ecnp-courses/modernised-concept-adhd
Early Career Academy: www.ecnp.eu/early-career-academy

Tribulations and perks of building a career in the neuroscience landscape

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0200

The building of an academic career can be a beautiful but challenging road. Anna Beyeler, France, is a principal investigator at the French Institute of Health (INSERM). In this podcast, Ilse Graat, the Netherlands, talks with her about the ups and downs of her academic career path and how she currently helps early career scientists in building their own career. Amongst other things, she highlights that there should be more attention for the full range of neuroscience careers, not only emphasizing careers in Academia.

PRISM 2 project – Precision medicine for psychiatry: from brain function to behaviour

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0100

The PRISM 2 project aims to develop a quantitative biological approach to the understanding of neuropsychiatric diseases. In this episode Abi Abrahams interviews Professor Martien Kas and Dr. Hugh Marston, where they discussed the aims and legacy of the PRISM 2 project. Conversation covered areas such as industry and academia collaboration, advice for early career scientists, and their hopes for the future in the field of neuropsychiatry.

Important links:
Prism 2 project: https://prism2-project.eu/en/prism-study/
Innovative Medicine Initiative: https://www.imi.europa.eu/

From tokenism to empowerment: lived experience experts in research

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0100

Lived experience experts bring unique insights and perspectives to the research process. In this podcast, Vanessa Pinfold, United Kingdom, and Annemiek van Berkel, The Netherlands, discuss how to truly engage lived experience in research. As research director at the McPin Foundation, Vanessa has over a decade experience on how to put lived experience at the core of mental health research. She shares strategies and practical tips on how to ensure meaningful involvement - especially for those who would like to start but unsure how. Join this insightful conversation and get inspired!

Why sex differences matter in applied neuroscience

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0100

In this podcast, pharmacologist Christina Dalla, shares with Aiste Lengvenyte, France, her journey into the world of sex differences in depression models and antidepressant response. They discuss why sex matters in neuroscience and how it should be integrated into research. Christina also shares the challenges and rewards of her career and gives insight into the role of sex and gender in the future of applied neuroscience.

The paradox of wealth and mental health

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0200

We are more prosperous, but mentally sicker than ever. Does prosperity bring bad luck? In this podcast Damiaan Denys and Ilse Graat discuss the paradox between greater economic wealth and the increase of mental complaints. Additionally, Damiaan talks about the choices he made as an early career researcher, his professional journey and his reasons to combine philosophy, psychiatry, clinical work and scientific research. One of his research topics focusses on confidence, in this podcast he explains that confidence abnormalities are associated with different psychiatric disorders.

Challenges in youth mental health – awareness, prevention and access to treatment*

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 16:00:00 +0100

The COVID pandemic created a beneficial momentum in mental health research. In this podcast, Celso Arango and Aiste Lengvenyte discuss the challenges in youth mental health including awareness, prevention and access to treatment. They also talk about the latest discoveries on the causes of neurodevelopmental conditions and the need for a more dimensional approach in mental health.

Psychedelic research: the what, why and how

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 14:00:00 +0100

The use of psychedelics in the treatment of psychiatric disorders has been receiving widespread attention from the nonprofessional and scientific community for the last few years. The practice of taking a small, non-psychedelic dose of LSD or psilocybin to improve particular behaviour, emotions, or a psychiatric condition is claimed to be effective by its users. In this podcast Ilse Graat, the Netherlands, interviews Kim Kuypers, the Netherlands, on her path towards psychedelics, discussing where this young research field stands and where it is heading, including new research on microdosing yet to be explored.

Part two – The impact of dietary habits and physical activity on mental health

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0100

Would you like to know ‘why we just don’t do the things we know are good for us?’ listen to part two of the podcast series with Silke Matura and Veerle van Gils. Learn more on the effects of lifestyle on cognition and get familiar with the various techniques used to measure different types of cognition.

Part one – PRIME time: multimorbidity of insulin-related somatic and brain diseases

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0100

In part one of the two-part podcast series, recorded during the ECNP Congress in Vienna, PhD student Veerle van Gils and senior clinical scientist and psychologist Dr Silke Matura discuss the role of dysfunctional insulin signalling as modulator of mental and non-mental chronic diseases. They are both part of the PRIME (Prevention and Remediation of Insulin Multimorbidity in Europe) project trying to identify and specify the molecular mechanisms underlying insulin comorbidities.

On what it was like to be an Early Career Scientist two decades ago, comorbidities in ADHD, being part of the ECNP Network ADHD across the lifespan, and the impact of the pandemic

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 13:00:00 +0100

In this podcast Andreas Reif, past-chair of the Scientific Programme Committee, is in conversation with Early Career Advisory Panel chair Nils Opel. Andreas Reif, who studies molecular underpinnings of neuropsychiatric disorders, talks about his life in science and how science has speeded up since he started his career. In addition, he shares some advice to ensure a successful career start, elaborates on his participation in research networks and the impact of the COVID19 pandemic on research and mental health

On the value of scientific work, collaboration and communication, the younger generation and being a woman in science

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0100

ECNP president Gitte Knudsen talks about neurobiology, her personal career history and future plans. Additionally, she gives advice to Early Career researchers on creating a successful career without neglecting personal life.

Mechanisms behind emotional processing and drug response in the treatment of depression and anxiety

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Catherine Harmer, the director of the Psychopharmacology and Emotional Research Lab at the University of Oxford, talks about her research path and the major findings on the mechanisms behind emotional processing and depression. She also discusses novel findings on the cognitive mechanisms of the response to drugs used in the treatment of depression and anxiety.

Pilot episode – On career, research, and the renaissance of psychedelics with David Nutt

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 07:00:00 +0200

In this very first ECNP podcast, professor David Nutt, Imperial College of London, a leading expert in neuropsychopharmacology, shares his thoughts about the major findings in brain science and the future of psychiatry. He also talks about his curious path as a psychiatrist-turned-researcher and a fierce advocate for evidence-based treatments and policies.