Organized by: Italian Stress Network (ISN)

“Navigating Stress, Gender, and Cultural diversities: Building Inclusive Careers in Neuroscience”

Structure

1. Opening Remarks (5 minutes)

• • Patrizia Campolongo, Sapienza University of Rome. patrizia.campolongo@uniroma1.it
    Founder & President, Italian Stress Network (ISN)

• • Marco Andrea Riva, University of Milan.
    Founder & President, Italian Stress Network (ISN)

Introducing the role of stress in Mediterranean societies, with a focus on cultural and gender dimensions. Addressing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to stress research in fostering collaboration within the region.

2. Interdisciplinary Panel Discussion (30 minutes) moderated by Patrizia Campolongo and Marco Andrea Riva.

This session will bring together prominent researchers with diverse perspectives:

Christina Dalla – President, Mediterranean Neuroscience Society (MNS)

Opening perspectives on gender disparities in stress research and the Mediterranean neuroscience community.

Carmen Sandi – Founder & President, Global Stress and Resilience Network (GRSNet); Founder, ALBA Network

Promoting diversity and global collaboration in neuroscience: lessons from major international initiatives.

Francesca Cirulli – Chair, ALBA Network

Gender equity and stress research: bridging science and advocacy in Europe.

Amira Zaki – Past Council Member, MNS and of the IBRO African Regional Committee

Perspectives on structural and cultural challenges for women in science in North Africa.

Ali Jawaid – Pakistani-born neuroscientist; Head of TREND Lab, Nencki Institute, FENS- Kavli Network of Excellence (FKNE) Scholar (2023-2028)

The neuroepigenetics of early adversity and intergenerational trauma: integrating stress, equity, and translational neuroscience.

Youssef Anouar – President-Elect, MNS; President, French Society of Neuroendocrinology

Reflections on stress, cultural identity, and navigating academic systems from North Africa to USA and Europe.

3. Open Discussion with the Audience (25 minutes)
   An interactive session to engage the audience in identifying solutions to cultural and gender-related challenges in stress research and neuroscience. Topics include:

• • How to integrate cultural diversity in neuroscience research.
  • Strategies to support inclusivity and promote resilience across the Mediterranean region.