Past event
Circle of Friends winter reception
An elegant setting to welcome a new Executive Director
On December 9, the Circle of Friends gathered for their traditional winter reception, an unmissable event that takes place twice a year. This year’s event took place in the sumptuous setting of the Cheval Blanc Paris, generously made available for the occasion.
The evening also marked an opportunity to say farewell to Professor Alexis Brice, the Institute’s outgoing Executive Director, and to warmly welcome Professor Stéphanie Debette as his replacement.
Passing on the baton and a vision for the future
After a decade of service to medical research and innovation, Professor Alexis Brice gave a speech that looked back at the many scientific advances made possible thanks to the support of the Circle of Friends.
Professor Stéphanie Debette then enthusiastically unveiled her vision for the coming years. An internationally renowned researcher and neurologist, she highlighted her ambition to further strengthen links between basic research and clinical applications, while continuing to mobilize critical support to advance ambitious projects.
In her speech, she discussed several priority areas, including the importance of innovation in brain imaging, the impact of advances in artificial intelligence on neuroscience, and forging partnerships with other major scientific institutions around the world.
An evening for discussing ideas and strengthening bonds
The evening reception was an opportunity for members of the Circle of Friends, researchers, partners and philanthropists to meet in a relaxed setting to discuss the exciting possibilities the future holds.
Géraldine Farjot, Director of Innovation at Paris Brain Institute, also attended to present the NeurAL program, which provides a launch pad for innovative neuroscience start-ups. Designed to bridge the gap in technical and industrial expertise required to incubate neuroscience projects through to the creation of viable start-ups, this seed funding program aims to identify and support promising projects, guiding them to fruition to promote innovative entrepreneurship.
Against the elegant backdrop of the Cheval Blanc Paris, discussions spanned science and humanism, commitment and creativity. There was a warm and celebratory atmosphere to the evening, paired with exquisite service and a selection of delicious canapés.
