15th International Newborn Brain Conference was aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals



 

The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), at University College Cork (UCC), is the hub of world-leading research and innovation, working to provide better outcomes in pregnancy, newborn period and early childhood. INFANT is answering the international need for research and innovation to improve health outcomes for mothers and babies and their families. Across pregnancy, birth, infancy and childhood, INFANT is solving challenges through its key research themes

IMPROVING NEUROLOGICAL HEALTH OUTCOMES OF NEWBORNS
 

 

The 15th International Newborn Brain Conference was hosted in Cork in 2024, by the INFANT Research Centre at University College Cork (UCC), under the leadership of Professor Geraldine Boylan. The event brought together over 500 delegates from 50 countries (380 attending in person and 154 online). Run over three days, the programme included practical pre-congress workshops, keynote lectures, and plenary sessions covering topics such as neurodevelopment, neuroprotection, brain monitoring, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in EEG analysis (electroencephalogram - a test that measures and records the electrical signals the brain produces). The conference not only facilitates the exchange of research but also nurtures a multidisciplinary community and empowers a diverse array of delegates including neonatologists, neurologists, nurses, engineers, therapists, and educators from around the world and equips them with the tools and insights necessary to champion the cause of neonatal brain health, contribute to improved care, and better outcomes worldwide.

The 15th International Newborn Brain Conference (INBBC) extended beyond the event itself. Below are some of the key highlights and outcomes:

• Strengthening Ireland's position as a destination for purpose-driven, health-focused conferences aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Positioned Cork as a hub for scientific and socially responsible international events, reinforcing its reputation as a destination for knowledge exchange.
• Advancing neonatal brain care and clinical practice: the conference serves as a global platform for the exchange of cutting-edge research, technologies, and clinical practices in neonatal brain monitoring and neuroprotection. By bringing together world-leading experts, the conference accelerates the translation of research into practice and supports better outcomes for newborns and families.
• Strengthening the voice of allied healthcare professionals: The conference recognises the vital contribution of neonatal nurses, therapists, and allied healthcare professionals. Dedicated sessions were designed to empower these groups, enhance communication with families, and promote holistic, family-centred care. This inclusive structure ensures that the full spectrum of neonatal professionals is represented and valued.
• Fostering multidisciplinary and global collaboration: INBBC 2024 brought together over 500 delegates from 50 countries, including neonatologists, neurologists, physicians, nurses, allied healthcare professionals, engineers, researchers, educators, and parents. By creating a global hub for collaboration, the conference continues to fuel international partnerships and joint research initiatives that aim to directly improve outcomes.
• Building local and national expertise: Hosting INBBC in Ireland in 2024 and on two previous occasions made world-class education accessible for Ireland's medical students, trainees, and early-career professionals. This has helped strengthen Ireland's neonatal workforce and positioned INFANT Research Centre at UCC as a recognised centre of excellence in newborn brain research and care.
• Driving innovation in neonatal technologies: The conference has played a pivotal role in fostering innovation through the sharing of new technologies and research breakthroughs. Irish spin-out companies NeuroBell and CergenX, both originating from INFANT at UCC, exemplify how conference engagement can evolve into real-world impact.

 

The INBBC's value is in knowledge mobilisation: bringing together international expertise to share evidence, challenge assumptions and shape next steps in neonatal brain health research and care. Hosting the conference in Ireland strengthens global links and the innovation ecosystem that supports long-term benefit for families and society, while enhancing Ireland's knowledge economy through international engagement.
- Geraldine Boylan, Professor of Neonatal Physiology, Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, University College Cork, Director, Irish Centre for Maternal & Child Health Research (INFANT)