As our world becomes increasingly digital, understanding the brain and the data it produces is more crucial than ever. This need catalyzed the launch of the two-year NeuroData program, an EU Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Brain and Data Science in October 2023. The first year is spent at Bar-Ilan University and the second at one of the partner universities in Europe. The NeuroData program, which is coordinated by Prof. Alon Korngreen, Head of the Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Center at Bar-Ilan University, seeks to bridge the historically separate fields of brain science and data science, training students to tackle complex issues at this dynamic intersection.
Students and faculty at the first NeuroData Joint Summer Program at the University of Zagreb in Croatia
Bridging the Disciplinary Divide
The NeuroData program addresses a pressing gap in education by combining neuroscience with data science, a union that Prof. Korngreen believes is overdue. “The traditional separation between brain science and data science needs to be revised to address the complex questions of brain function that are now central to technological innovation,” he explains. As data generation soars—with around 2.5 exabytes produced daily—the skills imparted by this program become even more essential. Graduates will be equipped to lead in industries such as neurotechnology, artificial intelligence, and healthcare, where interdisciplinary expertise is invaluable.
A Globally Inclusive Educational Experience
In its inaugural year, the NeuroData program welcomed 14 students primarily from Europe, but the 2024-2025 intake has brought together students from diverse backgrounds. “We have students from many countries including the United States, the Philippines, Poland, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Nepal, Spain, Mexico, China, and Russia. It’s great to see that it’s more international this year and not mostly from Europe,” Prof. Korngreen says, emphasizing the program’s expanding global reach.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
The program’s journey has not been without obstacles. The recent war posed significant challenges to students and faculty alike. Reflecting on this, Prof. Korngreen shares, “We had a war, which didn’t make things easy, but we rose to the challenge and teaching continued.” Despite the turmoil, the program adapted by shifting to a hybrid model, allowing students to continue their studies remotely when necessary. This adaptability was well-received, with students expressing appreciation for the quality and resilience of the program’s structure.
Learning by Doing: The Zagreb University Summer School
One of the program’s highlights is the Joint Summer School in Croatia, a two-week compulsory session where students receive hands-on experience in scientific techniques and data analysis.
Prof. Korngreen is enthusiastic about this immersive aspect of the program, describing it as “an amazing experience that goes beyond theory, enabling students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios, thus fostering a deeper understanding of both neuroscience and data science.”
L-R: Dr. Pinchas Tandeitnik (BIU), Prof. Dražen Jurišić (UNIZG), Željka Pitner (UNIZG), and Daniel Schuval (BIU)
Prof. Dražen Jurišić from UNIZG’s Faculty of Engineering shared his thoughts about the program. “As a longstanding partner of BIU and collaborator with its Faculty of Engineering, I was delighted to witness the summer program held jointly at Zagreb University and Bar-Ilan University. This cooperation will further strengthen our research groups and enhance collaboration between our two countries, imparting shared scientific values and knowledge to the next generation of students.”
Summer Program Experience and Feedback
According to Prof. Mario Cifrek from Zagreb University’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing and part of the team responsible for coordinating the program, one of the highlights of the Summer School was the practical sessions that focused on critical thinking and direct application of skills. Invited speakers brought real-world insights, and hands-on workshops allowed students to apply concepts through experiments, coding labs, and science projects. This active engagement made the workshops both memorable and highly effective for learning.”
One of the challenges faced during the program was explaining abstract mathematical concepts to students with varying backgrounds. “We addressed this by breaking down complex terms into simpler, relatable examples. The diversity in students’ knowledge, particularly with interdisciplinary groups, required creative adjustments in our teaching methods,” Cifrek said.
A summer school excursion to the Plitvice Lakes
Overall, the NeuroData leadership received excellent feedback from students, with many expressing interest in returning next year and staying connected with the Summer School team.
“Looking back, the hands-on experience and practical applications of theoretical knowledge were most impactful for the students’ growth. Moving forward, we’ll continue adapting based on feedback, enhancing support materials for students from diverse educational backgrounds, and providing resources to simplify complex concepts,” Prof. Cifrek reflected.
A Vision for Future Leaders in Science and Technology
The NeuroData curriculum spans two years, with students beginning their studies at Bar-Ilan University before progressing to one of the partner universities across Europe, where they specialize in areas such as Biomedical Engineering, Cognitive Neuroscience, Systems Neuroscience, and Neuroimaging. Each track provides rigorous, practical training, preparing students for research and real-world applications. As Prof. Korngreen explains, “Students will be trained in the practical aspects of both disciplines, preparing them for careers in neurotechnology, healthcare, education, and more.”
Students in the NeuroData program joined other students from Bar-Ilan’s Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Center on a tour of Masada during their year in Israel
The second year of the program takes place at one of the consortium’s partner institutions, where students choose a specialized sub-track and work on a research thesis. The program is a collaboration among six leading universities across Israel and Europe, including Bar-Ilan University, Instituto Superior Técnico at the University of Lisbon, University of Jyväskylä, University of Padua, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and Croatia’s University of Zagreb. Graduates will receive a double master’s degree from two of the partner universities, depending on their chosen study track.
Rethinking Artificial Intelligence
In his discussions on artificial intelligence, Prof. Korngreen offers a perspective grounded in both neuroscience and technology. “What the public calls ‘artificial intelligence’ should be more accurately named ‘machine learning,’” he notes, adding, “The word ‘intelligence’ is misleading and an anthropomorphization of a computer algorithm.” While he acknowledges the potential of machine learning, he emphasizes its limitations, reminding us that it “depends on the human operating it.” This caution underscores the importance of ethical responsibility in the use of technology, a lesson instilled in NeuroData students.
Shaping a New Generation of Thinkers
Prof. Korngreen sees promise in the younger generation, whose learning styles and cognitive adaptability reflect the fast-paced changes of the digital era. Addressing the common concern that today’s youth are overly absorbed in brief, audiovisual content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, he reassures, “Our children may learn differently from us, but they are just as bright as we are. The brain is plastic. It can always learn new things.”
A Bright Future
With applications flooding in from nearly 90 countries, the NeuroData program is quickly becoming a prestigious, globally recognized training ground for aspiring scientists. Although entry is competitive, with limited scholarships and selective requirements, the program’s ability to attract diverse talent reflects its success and growing influence. Prof. Korngreen notes, “We have had hundreds of applicants from more than 90 countries… it’s very encouraging that we have 15 new students for this year’s program even though the war continues.”
Note: The EU provides scholarships for 14-15 students for the NeuroData: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Program in Brain and Data Science. Scholarship applications for the second NeuroData program (2024-2026) will open on November 15, 2024, and close on February 5, 2025.
Conclusion
The NeuroData program exemplifies resilience, innovation, and interdisciplinary excellence. By preparing students to navigate the ever-evolving challenges at the intersection of brain science and data science, it is shaping a future where understanding the brain can unlock new possibilities in technology, healthcare, and beyond. With Prof. Korngreen at the helm, NeuroData is paving the way for a new generation of scientists and innovators, poised to tackle some of the most profound questions of our time.
Find out more about the NeuroData program here.
