Innovation for the Aging Brain

The Aging Brain Initiative Fall 2026 Symposium: Innovation for the Aging Brain Date: Friday, September 25, 2026Time: 1:00-6:00pm (Talks: 1:00-5:00pm; Poster Session: 5:00-6:00pm)Location: Singleton Auditorium (46-3002, Third Fl of MIT Building 46)Address: 43 Vassar Street, Cambridge, MA 02139Faculty Host: Li-Huei Tsai Join us in person on Friday, September 25th for a half day symposium by the Aging Brain Initiative at MIT, this year titled “Innovation for the Aging Brain”. This year, we bring together MIT faculty whose cutting-edge technologies are fundamentally transforming how we model, measure, and intervene in neurobiology and brain aging. Speakers will showcase innovations spanning molecular imaging platforms that illuminate neural circuit activity; brain-wave dynamics underlying cognition and memory; chemical tools for precisely targeting and modulating aging-associated molecular pathways; bioengineered models of the neuro-muscular junction to study ALS; and the first AI foundation model built to make Alzheimer's preventable. Attendees will gain insight into how engineering, chemistry and neuroscience converge to address critical challenges in age-related neurodegeneration and Alzheimer's prevention. Speakers Alan Jasanoff, McGovern Institute, MIT Biological EngineeringOleta Johnson, MIT ChemistryLaura Kiessling, MIT ChemistryEarl K. Miller, MIT Picower Institute for Learning and MemoryRitu Raman, MIT Mechanical EngineeringGiovanni Traverso, MIT Mechanical EngineerinG About The Aging Brain Initiative The Aging Brain Initiative is an interdisciplinary research effort that pulls together faculty expertise, knowledge, and technical resources from across MIT to solve the mysteries of the aging brain. It spans neuroscience, fundamental biology and genetics, investigative medicine, engineering and computer science, economics, chemistry, urban planning, and artificial intelligence to enable a comprehensive systems approach. What's the ultimate mission? To deliver the basic research that makes possible new tools to address the challenges of brain aging and create a better future for millions. Read more here: https://picower.mit.edu/research/aging-brain-initiative