A conversation with EBRAINS on advancing global neuroscience collaboration
IBI Chair, Dr. Judy Illes, recently hosted a conversation with Dr. Katrin Amunts and Dr. Jan G. Bjaalie to discuss the relationship between EBRAINS and the International Brain Initiative (IBI) in advancing global neuroscience collaboration. Dr. Amunts serves as the Joint Chief Executive Officer of EBRAINS and is a Professor of Brain Research and Director of the Cécile and Oskar Vogt Institute of Brain Research at Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf. Dr. Bjaalie is the Leader of EBRAINS Data Services, Professor, and Pro-Dean for Research and Innovation at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo.
The importance of international collaboration in neuroscience
Dr. Amunts and Dr. Bjaalie described EBRAINS as the European digital research infrastructure for brain-related research, developed by the Human Brain Project, which began 12 years ago. They emphasized that neuroscience is inherently global, and the emergence of several large brain projects underscored the necessity for international cooperation, leading to the formation of the IBI. They highlighted that the Human Brain Project aimed to understand the human brain's structure and function and translate this knowledge into brain medicine and new technologies. The development of a coherent platform to integrate various tools became essential, leading to the creation of EBRAINS, designed to provide neuroscientists with mature tools and well-annotated data to facilitate their research.
Moving forward with EBRAINS
Dr. Amunts and Dr. Bjaalie outlined that success would be measured by the number of users and the connectivity of the infrastructure's elements. A key milestone is the effective management of human brain data to enhance international collaboration, as sharing experimental data on animals is already well-handled. They also pointed out numerous technological milestones, such as creating interoperable solutions, establishing standards for research documentation, and ensuring the reproducibility of research. They stressed the importance of the Technology Readiness Level (TRL), aiming to provide mature services at higher TRLs to ensure stability and support researchers in data integration and annotation.
EBRAINS and the IBI
Dr. Amunts and Dr. Bjaalie described the productive relationship with IBI, marked by successful working groups that selected topics of interest, developed recommendations, and took action. They noted the impact of the working group on research data, particularly in areas such as international data governance and standards. They also emphasized the importance of IBI in facilitating education and training, addressing the need for data sharing and transparency. As a worldwide forum with a global scope, IBI connects large infrastructures, enhances awareness and access to digital tools, and ensures that researchers globally have access to data and resources. They highlighted the Neuroethics Working Group as a significant success story, where IBI facilitated global outreach and collaboration.
In summary, the discussion with Dr. Amunts and Dr. Bjaalie emphasized the significance of EBRAINS and the international collaboration fostered by IBI. Their insights into the milestones and metrics of success for EBRAINS, as well as the benefits of global neuroscience collaboration, provide a comprehensive overview of their vision for the future.
The IBI looks forward to further collaboration with EBRAINS in advancing global neuroscience!