Differences, Peace and Shadows

When we speak the same language, we tend to assume our brains work the same way too. But do they?
I explore how differently individual brains process words even among healthy people with no neurological conditions. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), I investigate the neural activity underlying language and show that, while we share common patterns, no two brains are exactly alike in how they handle words.
We’ll take a look at what “typical” language processing network in the brain is supposed to look like and then challenge that idea. If our physical apparence and personalities vary so much, why wouldn’t our brain activity? What happens when we stop averaging brains and start looking at individuals?
I want to show you the brain as I experience it: endlessly fascinating and unexpectedly beautiful, with structural and functional uniqueness in every individual.

What is peace? It's a complex question with no easy answer. This was true in the early modern period (1500–1800) as well as today. The term has evolved over time, taking on different meanings during the Reformation and the Enlightenment, for example. In this talk, I will discuss the various meanings of peace, as well as exploring how it was negotiated, safeguarded and established during that historical period. Can we learn from early modern diplomats how to make peace? Or are such assumptions ahistorical?

The integrity of science rests on trust—but that trust is increasingly under strain. From high-profile cases of data fabrication to widespread questionable research practices (QRPs) such as p-hacking, selective reporting, and HARKing (hypothesizing after results are known), the “dark side” of science is not limited to a few bad actors but reflects systemic pressures within academia. This talk explores both blatant misconduct and more subtle practices that distort the scientific record, illustrated by prominent real-world cases. It then turns to solutions: how robust research data management (RDM), transparency, and open science practices can act as a “cure” by making research more reproducible, auditable, and trustworthy.