Brainbox & KU Leuven Present
The 2026 International Conference on Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation
in Animal Models
1-2 June 2026 | Leuven, Belgium
Exploring the cutting-edge applications of transcranial ultrasound stimulation in animal models.
Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation (TUS) has emerged as a transformative tool in neuroscience, offering a unique combination of high spatial resolution and deep-tissue penetration without the need for invasive surgery.
This conference brings together world-leading neuroscientists, engineers, and researchers to explore the cutting-edge applications of TUS in animal models. From fundamental mechanistic discoveries to the development of translatable therapeutic protocols, we will dive deep into how ultrasound is redefining our ability to map and modulate the brain.
Abstract submissions are now open!
We are encouraging any researchers working on TUS applications in animal studies to submit their research abstract to ANIMUS 2026.
The deadline to submit your research abstract is May 1st, 2026.
Organising Committee:
Myles Mc Laughlin, Assistant Professor at KU Leuven
Maarten Laroy, PhD, KU Leuven
Charlotte Smets, PhD Student at KU Leuven
In collaboration with KU Leuven.
Supplementary Workshop
The ANIMUS 2026 conference will be followed up by an intensive, hands-on workshop designed to provide participants with technical proficiency in TUS methodologies.
Workshop registration is separate from conference registration. If you wish to attend the workshop, please select the correct ticket type upon registration.
The workshop sessions will cover:
Integrating TUS with ultra high-density probes, showcasing the acquisition and analysis of large-scale neuronal activity.
Learn the "how-to" of laboratory calibration, including pressure field measurements, safety parameters, and 3D pressure profile visualizations to ensure your experiments are both safe and rigorous.
How to account for skull interactions and focal point shifts to optimize your experimental design.
The use of miniature transducers, focusing on the practicalities of acoustic coupling, precise targeting, and integrating stimulation with behavioural readouts.
Spaces for this workshop are strictly limited - register now to secure your spot!
Meeting Venue
KU Leuven
KU Leuven is the largest university in Belgium as well as the largest Dutch-language university in the world.
The university has a number of research projects focusing on novel applications and advances in neuroscience, as well as a fully equipped brain stimulation laboratory.
Positioned at the forefront of non-invasive brain stimulation, the university will serve as the venue for ANIMUS 2026 and the following supplementary workshop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and register.
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The main conference will run on Thursday, 1st of June, between 9AM - 5PM.
The TUS workshop will take place the next day, on Friday 2nd of June.
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From fundamental mechanistic discoveries to the development of translatable therapeutic protocols, we will dive deep into how ultrasound is redefining our ability to map and modulate the brain.
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Integrating TUS with ultra high-density probes, showcasing the acquisition and analysis of large-scale neuronal activity.
Learn the "how-to" of laboratory calibration, including pressure field measurements, safety parameters, and 3D pressure profile visualizations to ensure your experiments are both safe and rigorous.
How to account for skull interactions and focal point shifts to optimize your experimental design.
The use of miniature transducers, focusing on the practicalities of acoustic coupling, precise targeting, and integrating stimulation with behavioural readouts.
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The conference is suitable for researchers at all stages of their careers, with opportunities for early-career researchers to exhibit their work and established researchers or professionals to discover and learn more about the latest advancements in TUS.
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We welcome submissions of original results, new analyses of published results, methods papers, computational modelling, case reports, null findings, and ethics and regulatory reviews.