SOCIAL FUNCTIONS
MAIN SOCIAL FUNCTIONS
NeuroAlliance 2026 Welcome Reception
When: 19:00 - 21:00 - Sunday, 29 November 2026
Where: Hilton Sydney, Level 3 Exhibition Area
Cost: $20 standard, $95 additional guests
What: Join us to officially open NeuroAlliance 2026. The Welcome Reception is our chance to come together for the first time as a united community of neuroscientists, cognitive neuroscientists, and biological psychiatry researchers. Enjoy canapés and drinks while reconnecting with colleagues, meeting new faces from across all three societies, and setting the tone for what promises to be a landmark week for brain research in our region.
NeuroAlliance 2026 Networking Event
When: 19:00 - 23:00 - Tuesday, 1 December 2026
Where: Doltone House, Darling Island Wharf
Cost: $120 students, $170 standard, $200 additional guests
What: The signature social event of NeuroAlliance 2026. Set against the stunning backdrop of Sydney's Darling Harbour, the Conference Networking Function brings the full delegation together for an evening of food, music, and conversation. With waterfront views, a generous food package, and live entertainment, this is the night to celebrate the science, the people, and the partnerships that make NeuroAlliance 2026 possible. Tickets available during registration.
ECR EVENTS
ECR Pitch Afternoon
When: Sunday, 29 November 2026
Where: Hilton Sydney, Level 3 Grand Ballroom
Cost: No cost
What: Kick off NeuroAlliance 2026 with our flagship ECR Pitch Afternoon. In this dynamic pre-conference session, early career researchers will come together in small, collaborative groups to develop and pitch a new idea or initiative. Whether it's a research concept, an outreach proposal, or a bold new direction for the field, this is your chance to think creatively, work across disciplines, and gain feedback from your peers and senior researchers. Prizes will be on offer for standout pitches. A great way to break the ice ahead of the main program and to start building your NeuroAlliance network.
ECR Networking Night - Limited to the first 250 attendees
When: Monday, 30 November 2026
Where: TBC
Cost: $25
What: After a full first day of science, unwind and connect with fellow ECRs at our dedicated Networking Night. This relaxed social event is the perfect opportunity to meet researchers from across all three societies, swap notes on the day's talks, and build connections that will support your career long after the conference ends. Food and drinks provided.
ECR Mentoring Breakfast - limited to the first 100 attendees
When: Tuesday, 1 December 2026
Where: TBC
Cost: $10
What: Start your day with insight, inspiration, and good coffee. Our roundtable-style Mentoring Breakfast brings ECRs together with established researchers and leaders from across neuroscience, cognitive science, and biological psychiatry. ECRs will rotate between small group discussions on topics including industry pathways, career development, navigating academia, and work–life balance. A unique chance to gain candid advice from a diverse group of mentors in a supportive, informal setting.