From Molecules to Memory
2025 CNLM Spring Conference
May 8-9, 2025
Herklotz Conference Room (directions)
Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory
University of California, Irvine
Organizing Committee:
Christine Gall, Michel Baudry, Manuella Oliveira Yassa and Michael Yassa
Join us for the 2025 CNLM Spring Conference on May 8–9, themed From Molecules to Memory, as we celebrate the remarkable scientific journey sparked by the discovery of long-term potentiation (LTP) more than fifty years ago. What began as an intriguing electrophysiological phenomenon has since evolved into a vibrant field uncovering the intricate molecular choreography that allows synapses to strengthen, networks to rewire, and memories to form.
This year’s meeting will spotlight major advances in our understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of synaptic plasticity—featuring talks from leaders who are decoding how receptors, scaffolding proteins, intracellular signaling cascades, and gene expression all come together to enable memory. A special panel on Industry and Entrepreneurship will feature UCI and CNLM alumni and community leaders who are turning foundational discoveries into real-world applications. Finally, the conference will feature a keynote by Dr. Gary Lynch, whose seminal work on the molecular basis of memory helped define the field. The meeting will also include open papers by faculty, lightning talks by trainees, poster sessions, and informal gatherings including Brainfest. It’s a chance to connect, exchange ideas, and reflect on how far we’ve come—and where the next breakthroughs might take us.
Agenda
Thursday, May 8, 2025
8:30 am
Check-in, Breakfast, and Poster Set-up
9:15 am
9:30 am
Welcome and Introduction
Session 1: Symposium
Moderator:
Michel Baudry, Western University
Speakers:
Christine Gall, UC Irvine
Kim Dore, UC San Diego
Javier Diaz-Alonso, UC Irvine
11:30 am
Lunch and Poster Session
1:00 pm
Data Blitz
3:00 pm
Refreshment Break
3:30 pm
Industry Panel
Moderator:
Michael Yassa, UC Irvine
Speakers:
Pete Vanderlish, Spinogenix
Nicola Broadbent, Allergan/Abbvie
Dan Gil, Pelage Pharmaceuticals
Keith Hoffman, Athos Pharmaceuticals
Denise Ruffner, DiviQ
Kathie Olsen, KLO International
5:30 pm
Casual Pizza Networking Dinner
Friday, May 9, 2025
9:00 am
Breakfast
9:30 am
Session 2: Symposium
Moderator:
Christine Gall, UC Irvine
Speakers:
Michel Baudry, Western University
Serena Dudek, NIH
Lulu Chen, UC Irvine
11:30 am
Lunch
1:00 pm
Open Paper Talks
3:00 pm
Break
3:30 pm
Keynote: Gary Lynch, UC Irvine
4:45 pm
BrainFest Party