By: IPP Bureau
Last updated : June 23, 2026 3:51 pm
Initiative seeks innovative experimental and computational approaches to uncover neural circuits regulating immune function and identify novel therapeutic targets
BioMed X, a leading innovation engine for the pharmaceutical industry, has announced a new global call for research proposals in neuroimmunology, supported by Biogen, a global biotechnology company focused on neurology, immunology and rare diseases.
The initiative aims to identify innovative approaches to better understand how neural circuits regulate immune system function and to uncover new therapeutic opportunities for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Growing evidence suggests that bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the immune system plays a crucial role in the development and progression of autoimmune disorders. While recent scientific advances have identified several neural pathways, neurotransmitters and glial-cell mechanisms involved in immune regulation, much of the underlying biology remains poorly understood.
To accelerate discoveries in this emerging field, BioMed X is inviting researchers worldwide to submit original project proposals focused on developing scalable experimental and computational platforms capable of systematically investigating the central nervous system-immune axis.
The initiative is particularly interested in proposals that combine neuroscience, immunology, advanced experimental technologies and in-silico modeling to identify novel and actionable therapeutic targets.
Selected researchers will be invited to participate in a five-day innovation boot camp at the BioMed X Institute in New Haven, Connecticut, from October 19–23, 2026. During the program, participants will work closely with mentors from BioMed X and Biogen to further refine and develop their research concepts.
Following the boot camp and a final evaluation process, BioMed X plans to establish a new multidisciplinary research team at its New Haven site to advance the most promising research approach emerging from the global crowdsourcing initiative.
The announcement comes as BioMed X continues to expand its research footprint in the United States. The organization recently appointed Dr. Bahareh Eftekharzadeh as Vice President, Head of Business Development and Head of Research USA. In her new role, she will oversee the scientific portfolio across BioMed X's research sites in New Haven, Ridgefield and Cambridge, while supporting new collaborations and helping translate innovative scientific concepts into impactful biomedical research programs.
Dr. Eftekharzadeh said, “The interface between neuroscience and immunology represents one of the most exciting frontiers in biomedical research today. By combining cutting-edge experimental platforms with advanced computational approaches, we hope to uncover fundamentally new mechanisms that could ultimately lead to better therapies for patients living with autoimmune diseases.”
Through this initiative, BioMed X and Biogen aim to foster global scientific collaboration and accelerate the discovery of breakthrough insights that could transform the understanding and treatment of autoimmune disorders.
Researchers interested in participating can submit their proposals through the BioMed X Career Space before August 16, 2026.