Welcome Address

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

We have the honor to invite you to the celebration of 70th Anniversary of the Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences (IP PAS) and the inauguration of the international scientific symposium which will take place on December 2-3, 2024, in Kraków.

Over the past seven decades, IP PAS has established itself as a leading research institution in Poland, specializing in neuropsychopharmacology. Our scientific pursuits, carried out in 14 departments and state-of-the-art research facilities, focus on understanding the mechanisms of central nervous system (CNS) disorders and developing novel bioactive substances for the treatment of psychiatric and neurological conditions. The upcoming symposium is designed to highlight the institute’s contributions to the field, both past and present, and to showcase the cutting-edge research currently being conducted. We are honored to host a distinguished lineup of plenary speakers which will offer deep insights into the key milestones in neuropharmacology, assess the current state of research, and share innovative strategies for developing effective and safe psychotropic medications. Among the notable talks, Dr. Phil Skolnick (USA) will discuss the development of glutamate-based antidepressants, while Professor Mart Saarma (Finland) will present groundbreaking research on novel mechanisms of neuroprotection. Additionally, Professor Micaela Morelli (Italy) will explore the profound impact of international collaborations on neuropharmacology, and Prof. Christian P. Müller (Germany) will shed light on the pharmacotherapy of drug substance disorders.

In addition to plenary lectures, we are excited to provide a platform for the next generation of researchers at IP PAS. Our young scientists will present their findings, offering fresh perspectives on topics such as neurodegeneration, rapid-acting antidepressants, and the role of serotonin receptors in synaptic plasticity. The symposium will also feature poster sessions, offering a glimpse into the diverse research carried out across the institute and beyond. We are confident that this symposium will foster fruitful discussions, inspire new collaborations, and contribute to the ongoing advancement of neuropharmacology. We invite researchers, clinicians, and scholars from around the world to join us in celebrating this special occasion and to be part of the vibrant exchange of ideas that will shape the future of our field.

We view this occasion not only as an opportunity to present scientific advancements but also as a gathering of the IP PAS family, where we can collectively honor the legacy of those who came before us. Your presence will be an essential part of this celebration, as we acknowledge and cherish the work of the scientific minds and staff whose dedication, over many decades, has helped us reach this important milestone.

We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating our rich history, engaging with the latest discoveries, and exploring the exciting future of our institute and the field of neuropharmacology.
 

Sincerely,
The Organizing Committee