WELCOME TO ICBEM 2026

We invite you to participate in the 16th International Conference on Brain Energy Metabolism (ICBEM) entitled, "Preserving Cellular Energetics and Brain Function in Aging and Neurological Disease ”.  The conference will be held at the in Barcelona, Spain from June 29-July 2, 2026.

This conference brings together leading researchers, clinicians, young scientists, students and postdocs interested in brain energy metabolism.

Lectures and discussions will cover emerging concepts related to  neuro-metabolic and neurovascular coupling in normal and aging brain, neuronal-glial communication, alterations in lipid metabolism that impact cell function in aging or the presence of ApoE4, the roles and neuroprotective potential of alternative substrates, whether glycolysis in microglia is “fueling the fire or fighting it”, and protecting neuronal metabolism.  A key concept is that energy metabolism is not just a permissive factor but is a driver of changes in brain.

The ICBEM biennial meetings provide a forum for lively, interactive and informative discussions that often lead to new collaborations. More than one-third of the meeting time is devoted to discussion which continues after the talks and poster sessions and often during free time. Student and fellow participation is strongly encouraged, and travel awards for a limited number of young scientists will be available.

The conference is open to all interested scientists with registration on a first-come basis until reaching a limit of 120 conferees. Registration covers most meals and meeting expenses, including a farewell dinner. Registration is anticipated to open in early 2026.

We anticipate providing about 20-25 travel stipends, depending on available funding, that will be awarded to students and postdoctoral fellows on a competitive basis. Candidates for travel awards must submit their abstracts by the early deadline. Notification of travel awards will be made by February 2026.  Childcare will also be available.

Any participants who have accessibility needs are requested to make their requirements known to the organizers so that every effort can be made to address their needs.