By In a landmark election, Indian neuroscientist Shubha Tole has been chosen to lead the International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO). Tole’s appointment marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the first president-elect from the developing world. Her election is seen as a step forward in promoting diversity and inclusion within the global neuroscience community.
Shubha Tole: A Trailblazer in Neuroscience
Shubha Tole has made remarkable strides in understanding the genetic mechanisms that influence brain structures responsible for emotions, language, and memory. As a professor in the biological sciences department at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai, her research has garnered international acclaim.
- Academic Background:
- PhD from California Institute of Technology
- Established research programs in India since 1999
- Leadership Roles:
- President of the International Society for Developmental Neuroscience (ISDN)
- Chaired the Women in Science Committee of the Indian Academy of Sciences
Tole’s dedication to neuroscience extends beyond her research. She has been a vocal advocate for increasing diversity in the field, contributing to networks like ALBA that support underrepresented groups in neuroscience.
Historic Election and IBRO’s Global Representation
The IBRO, which represents 69 scientific societies from 57 countries, held its annual assembly on October 6, 2024, in Chicago, USA. During this assembly, Shubha Tole was elected to the top position, a role she will assume starting January 1, 2026.
Election Details:
| Position | Name | Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| President-Elect | Shubha Tole | Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai |
| Secretary-General-Elect | João Relvas | University of Porto, Portugal |
| Treasurer-Elect | David Belin | University of Cambridge, UK |
As the first president from the developing world, Tole’s election is expected to bring fresh perspectives to IBRO’s initiatives, fostering greater global collaboration.
Vision for Diversity and Inclusion
In her official statement, Tole emphasized her commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the neuroscience community. “It is a privilege to serve the global neuroscience community through an organization like IBRO that has a network to reach aspiring and practicing neuroscientists worldwide, including those from regions that may not have easy access to resources or networking opportunities,” she stated.
Tole aims to leverage her position to ensure that IBRO’s programs are more accessible and supportive of scientists from diverse backgrounds. Her leadership is anticipated to inspire a more inclusive environment, encouraging participation from underrepresented regions and communities.
Key Initiatives Planned by Tole:
- Expanding Access: Implementing programs to support neuroscientists in resource-limited settings.
- Mentorship Programs: Establishing mentorship opportunities for young scientists globally.
- Collaborative Research: Promoting international research collaborations to tackle global brain health challenges.
Looking Ahead: IBRO’s Future Under Tole
With Tole at the helm, IBRO is poised to enhance its impact on the global neuroscience landscape. Her tenure is expected to focus on strengthening the organization’s infrastructure, promoting innovative research, and fostering a more inclusive scientific community.
Tracy Bale, the current President of IBRO, expressed confidence in Tole’s ability to lead the organization towards greater achievements. “Tole’s leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion on a global scale provides great confidence in the ability to steer IBRO towards ever-greater impacts in the coming years,” Bale remarked.
As Tole prepares to take on her new role, the neuroscience community eagerly anticipates the positive changes and advancements that her presidency will bring to IBRO and the broader field of brain research.