Unlocking the Mind: The Latest Discoveries Reshaping Our Consciousness

New Scientist presents ...

Dive deeper into the mysteries of your own existence with this one-day masterclass exploring the forefront of brain research and consciousness studies. Join leading neuroscientists and philosophers as they unveil groundbreaking discoveries that are transforming our understanding of the human mind.

From the first spark of thought to the boundless possibilities of dreaming, the human brain remains one of the greatest unanswered questions. Today, advanced technology from brain scans to AI are providing unprecedented insights into our inner world. Join our renowned guest speakers as they unveil the latest discoveries that are revealing the secrets of consciousness. From the nature of subjective experience to the potential for artificial intelligence, you'll explore the frontiers of knowledge and uncover the mind-blowing mechanisms behind your own perceptions, thoughts, and emotions.

At this Instant Expert, you’ll:

• Discover the latest groundbreaking discoveries in brain research and consciousness studies.
• Gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be human and the nature of your own mind.
• Meet and learn from leading experts in neuroscience and philosophy.
• Ask questions and engage in discussions about the future of consciousness research and its implications for humanity.

Talks and speakers:

When brain metabolism goes wrong: how type 2 diabetes in the brain causes Alzheimer's

Ewan McNay, Associate Professor and Area Head of Behavioural Neuroscience, University at Albany

Join Dr. Ewan McNay, Associate Professor and Area Head of Behavioural Neuroscience at the University at Albany, to learn about the deficits in brain metabolism that link type 2 Diabetes and Alzheimer's Disease. He will discuss findings, mostly from his lab, that have uncovered the roles of glucose, insulin, and other metabolic modulators in cognitive function; come to discover why the best thing that you can do for your brain may be to go to the gym. Ewan's talk will remind you of the importance of considering the brain not as an isolated thought-source in an unchanging vat, but rather as an organ affected by the whole body's physiological state - so that your state of consciousness really is changed by your level of sleep, food or coffee!

How close are we to understanding the neural basis of conscious awareness in humans?

Biyu He, Associate Professor, Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Institute, NYU Grossman School of Medicine

In this talk, Biyu will cover the current status of our understanding about the brain basis of consciousness in humans from a cognitive neuroscience perspective. She will discuss recent experiments tackling the brain mechanisms giving rise to perceptual awareness and the implications these studies hold for understanding perceptual disorders in clinical conditions.

Neurological disorders of consciousness

Nicholas Schiff,The Jerold B. Katz Professor of Neurology and Neuroscience, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine

With estimated 1.4 million new cases each year in the United States alone, traumatic brain injury is a major cause of neurological impairment for which there is no effective treatment. In this talk, Nicholas will outline clinical investigative studies of the pathophysiology of impaired consciousness, the neurophysiological mechanisms of arousal regulation, and the effects of deep brain electrical stimulation techniques on forebrain integration. He will provide valuable insights into how minimally conscious state patient behaviour is assessed, shedding light on the ethical methods that doctors should employ to improve function in the severely injured brain.

Who should attend?

This masterclass is designed for everyone with a curiosity about the human mind, from beginners who want to explore the basics to enthusiasts who want to stay at the forefront of exciting new discoveries. No prior knowledge is required, just an open mind and a desire to unlock the mysteries of your own consciousness.

Benefits of attending:

• Become an expert in one day
• Informal set-up, meet like minded people
• Open your mind, be inspired
• Unique chance to ask your burning questions to our experts

What's included in your ticket:

• In-depth and engaging talks from six leading scientists
• Ask-an-expert Question Time session
• Your chance to meet our six speakers and New Scientist host
• Exclusive on-the-day New Scientist subscription deal, book and merchandise offers

Booking information:

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

SVA Theatre, 333 West 23rd Street, New York, United States