An afternoon devoted to scientific exchange, collaboration and early-career research. SPARKs 2026 brings together PhD candidates from cycles XXXIX, XL and XLI to present their ongoing projects and foster interdisciplinary dialogue within the academic community.

Following welcome remarks by Eleonora Catricalà and Luca Rinaldi, and a session on doctoral experiences featuring Francesco Crottini, Eleonora Fullone, Marta Milanesi and Gabriele Volpara, the programme includes three scientific sessions highlighting cutting-edge research across cognitive neuroscience, experimental psychology, neurorehabilitation and decision-making processes.

Presentations will address a wide range of topics, including social cognition in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and eating disorders, semantic memory, non-invasive brain stimulation for chronic pain, executive functions, sustainability-related decision-making, addiction interventions, and post-stroke recovery.

The event will conclude with the presentation of the Best SPARKs Presentation Award by Gerardo Salvato, followed by an informal networking aperitif.