The Relevance of Brain Oscillations
On December 11 2024, the Biophore Amphitheater at the University of Lausanne hosted the symposium Oscillatory Brain Waves: Mechanisms, Functions, and Clinical Perspectives. This event, co-organized by David Pascucci and his team, focused on brain oscillations through a multidisciplinary lens, bridging fundamental research and clinical applications.
Nearly a century after the first electroencephalography recordings (EEG), the analysis of brain waves remains central to advancements in neuroscience and psychology, as well as in understanding conditions such as schizophrenia, memory disorders, and sensory-motor adaptation challenges. This event was made possible through the strategic partnership between the University of Lausanne (UNIL) and the University of Padua (UNIPD) and was part of the collaboration between the Psychophysics and Neural Dynamics Lab (UNIL/CHUV/theSense) and the Neuromove-rehab Lab (UNIPD).
A Platform for Emerging Scientists
With over 150 registered participants and presentations by eight international researchers, the symposium provided an exceptional platform for early-career scientists to showcase their work and shape the future of brain oscillation research. The presentations covered a range of topics, from theoretical and modeling advances commemorating 100 years since the first EEG recording to innovative approaches linking brain oscillations with the spatial dynamics of neural signals, which are essential for interacting with the environment.
Methodological and Clinical Advances in EEG
The invited speakers also discussed innovative models connecting oscillatory activity to specific brain functions and structural properties of the brain in both healthy and clinical populations. Another key theme focused on methodological considerations in studying brain functions and dysfunctions using EEG. The presentations highlighted the heterogeneity of findings and emphasized the importance of inter-individual differences, akin to “neural fingerprints,” underscoring the growing need for personalized approaches in neuroscience.
A Day of Collaboration and New Perspectives
The day was filled with engaging discussions, both during the sessions and at social events, fostering collaboration and inspiring new research directions. As David Pascucci concluded: “Celebrating 100 years of EEG research, we have shown that this field never grows old — it constantly evolves with new challenges and discoveries that propel EEG research into its next century.”
This symposium not only celebrated a historic milestone but also paved the way for promising new directions in the years to come !
