On Saturday 24 January, the National Northern Neuro Conference was held at The Walton Centre, welcoming student doctors from across the region for a day of hands-on learning, big ideas and forward-thinking discussion. Organised by the University of Liverpool Neurology and Neurosurgery Society (NeuroSoc), the conference showcased the rapidly evolving world of neuroscience, with precision medicine at its core. President Noor Kaur and Vice-President Zoha Imtiaz tell us more about the exciting day.
Planned and delivered by a highly motivated team of Liverpool student doctors, the conference offered a broad and engaging introduction to the field. Throughout the day, sessions spanned neurology and neurosurgery alongside lesser-explored specialties such as neuropathology and neurointerventional radiology, giving attendees a realistic and exciting insight into current neuroscientific practice. With clinical implication at the forefront of our focus, the conference team partnered with The Brain Charity, raising funds to support vital work for individuals affected by neurological conditions.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated student committee brought the conference to life:
Conference Team
- Conference Leads: Benjamin Priddey and Eliana Li
- Charity Lead: Debbie Ijelu
- NANSIG and Networking Lead: Anna Kamaly-Asl
- Academic Lead: Shakira Taylor
- Social Media Lead: Ayan Farooq
- Secretary: Aleena Noor
- Treasurer: Prasanna Velrasu
- Vice-President: Zoha Imtiaz
- President: Noor Kaur
A standout feature of the day was the range of interactive workshops, designed to put learning into practice. Students explored neurointerventional radiology using flow model simulators, engaged with neuropathology teaching through prosections, and took part in realistic simulation scenarios focused on neurological emergencies. These sessions, led by consultants and resident doctors, encouraged active discussion and practical problem-solving, making complex concepts approachable and memorable.
The conference also featured talks from leading clinicians and academics, including Mr Jonathan Ellenbogen, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital; Dr Rhys Davies, Consultant Neurologist and Neurology Lead at the University of Liverpool; and Professor Tony Marson, Liverpool alumnus and Deputy Director of the Liverpool Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Centre. Speakers shared insights into the future of neuroscience, highlighting how technology and precision medicine are reshaping both patient care and research.
Dr Rhys Davies said, “It is always a pleasure to host Neurosoc to Walton for its annual conference, providing opportunities for students to network and to learn, to present projects and to welcome students from other medical schools."
My impression over the years is that it’s a hugely positive experience for those who attend as student delegates, those on the Neurosoc committee who do all the work and for the clinicians who give of their time.
The conference also provided Liverpool Student Doctors with a platform to showcase their contributions to Neuroscience research, with prizes awarded to the outstanding poster and oral presentations:
Oral Presentation Winner
Kalp Gandhi with his work on Early intervention with cochlear implants can reduce Amyloid-β deposits and Inflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease associated with hearing loss.
Poster Presentation Winner
Elena Ward with her work on Exploring retinal artery occlusion pathways to care: Could thrombolysis be implemented with current pathways?
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the welcoming atmosphere, the quality of teaching, and the opportunity to engage directly with experts in the field.
The conference was an astounding success, leaving students inspired, better informed and excited about the possibilities within neuroscience. The organising team was also proud to raise a significant donation for The Brain Charity through the conference raffle.
NeuroSoc would like to thank the clinicians and administrative staff at The Walton Centre, as well as the Guild, for their support in making the event possible. The society looks forward to delivering more events that continue to spark interest, build skills and connect students with the world of neuroscience.
Discover more
- Follow NeuroSoc on Instagram for more highlights from the day and updates on future events.
- Interested in getting involved? Find out more about joining NeuroSoc on Liverpool Guild of Students.