About the Conference
Organizers: Verónica Martínez Cerdeño, Fernando García Moreno, Elena Vecino, and Stephen Noctor.
Scientific Committee: Zoltan Molnar, John Rubenstein, Fernando García Moreno, Verónica Martínez Cerdeño, and Stephen Noctor.
Topic: The Cortical Evolution symposium will promote the dissemination of novel ideas and concepts to shed light on evolution of the mammalian cerebral cortex. The goal of this conference is to further our understanding of factors involved in cortical evolution that are relevant for human brain function under normal and pathological conditions. Experts from prestigious research universities in the Americas, Europe, and Africa will present their most recent findings at the meeting. 150 faculty, students, and interested parties are expected. Attendees will have the opportunity to present their work in poster format, and six abstract submissions will be selected for a short oral presentation. The meeting will be organized into topical 5 sessions:
- Cortical Development
- Cortical Evolution
- Evolution of Cellular Types
- Evolution of Cortex and Behavior
- Paleoanthropology


Bilbao
Bilbao is a vibrant city in northern Spain that offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its walkability, Bilbao features an excellent public transportation network, making it easy to explore its many corners. The historic Casco Viejo, or ‘Siete Calles’ (Seven Streets), offers a maze of charming narrow alleys filled with lively bars, restaurants, and shops. Casco Viejo is perfect for indulging in pintxo (tapas) at the iconic Santa Maria or enjoying a glass of wine at Los Jardines. A must-see landmark in Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum, a striking example of modern architecture designed by Frank Gehry. The museum’s undulating structure made from gleaming titanium plates, houses one of the world’s most important collections of modern and contemporary art, making it a major cultural draw for visitors from around the world.
Bizkaia Aretoa Conference Center
The conference center is located in the heart of Bilbao on the Nervión River (Nerbioi Ibaia). The center is adjacent to the Guggenheim Museum between the Padre Arrupe pedestrian bridge and the Puente de Deusto bridge. The conference center includes over 9,000 square meters spread over six floors and hosts social, cultural, academic and scientific events organized by the Universidad del Pais Vasco (UPV/EHU) and external organizations. As a result, the Bizkaia Aretoa Conference Center has become a hub for cultural events in Bilbao.
