Theme Unlocking the mysteries of neurodegenerative diseases: Advances in research, diagnosis and treatment
Target audience Neuroscientists - Master's level
Language English

General

This two week-long summer school aims to provide a comprehensive, interdisciplinary understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, blending scientific rigor with practical applications. By engaging with cutting-edge research, real-world case studies and practical labtours, participants will gain invaluable insights into the complexities of neurodegenerative diseases, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to care and research. In addition, students will obtain valuable skills in critical and constructive thinking. Also, students will learn how to translate obtained knowledge and ideas into a high-quality presentation with students from various backgrounds.

Course description

This course will give the students insight into different aspects of neurodegenerative diseases of the brain such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and Multiple Sclerosis: from molecules to brain, and from cells to the clinic. Furthermore this course will give an overview of the current treatment landscapes of these diseases and research progress that contributes to future exciting developments for treatment. The course is organized by the Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (www⁠.cncr.nl) and the Alzheimer Center, Amsterdam UMC (https:⁠/⁠/www⁠.alzheimercentrum.nl/). 

The CNCR generates integrated research programs with state-of-the-art techniques, from genes to behavior, each combining mouse and human studies. It operates as an expertise center of the Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam. The Alzheimer Center is a world-renowed center for dementia research and care, with close connections to the centers for other neurological diseases.

To equip (future) healthcare professionals and researchers with the necessary tools to better understand and manage neurodegenerative diseases, this summer school offers a comprehensive exploration of the latest advances in neurodegenerative disease research, clinical management, and care strategies. Our course aims to bridge the gap between current research and clinical practice by introducing participants to the biological (cell and animal models, microscopy, physiology), clinical (etiology, pathology, genetics, diagnosis), therapeutic and social dimensions of neurodegenerative diseases.

Course overview

  • : 6-17 July 2026 (excluding arrival and departure days)
  • : In-person
  • : Lectures, tours, discussion, debates, workgroups
  • : Debate, report, presentation
  • See the course curriculum

Course level

Workload

  • : Equivalent to 3 ECTS
  • : 60
  • : 10

Lecturers 

  • Kim de Kleijn
  • Willem de Haan
  • Femke Feringa

Who can join?

This course is designed with master's level biology/medicine/psychology students in mind who wish to broaden their knowledge on neurodegenerative diseases into both the clinical and the biological disciplines. Assessment is on master's level, but PhDs are also welcome and final-year bachelor's students with the right motivation.

Date and Location

Duration 60 contact hours
Start date Monday, July 6, 2026
Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Costs and registration

Tuition fee: 938-1500 euros

More information and registration.

Contact

If you have doubts about your eligibility for the course, please contact: amsterdamsummerschool@vu.nl or +31 20 59 86429.