Experts gather to redefine intelligence at neuroscience and AI conference

In May 2025, Split, Croatia, hosted the sixth International Conference on Mathematics of Neuroscience and AI, marking a significant event in the convergence of neuroscience and artificial intelligence. This gathering attracted a diverse group of researchers, entrepreneurs, and visionaries, who engaged in discussions around complex topics pertaining to human cognition and machine learning. The conference's inception can be traced back to an informal meeting during the pandemic, where a group of colleagues, including Battleday, Professor Dan Nicolau Jr, and Dr. James Whittington, recognized the need for a unified theoretical approach to understanding human intelligence and its application to AI. The event presented a unique opportunity to foster collaboration between academic researchers and industry leaders, reflecting the shifting landscape of neuroscience and AI development. Notable figures such as Professor Juergen Schmidhuber, often referred to as the father of modern AI, and Professor Jay McClelland, a pioneer in artificial neural networks, participated in the conference, highlighting the quality and relevance of the discussions. Attendees found the atmosphere to be exceptional, combining intellectual rigor with a relaxed environment that encouraged open dialogue among the leaders in the field. A key focus at the event was the recognition that while neuroscience has made strides over the last century, it still requires more precise theoretical frameworks akin to the unifying theories found in physics. The current landscape of AI development, according to Professor McClelland, may necessitate new strategies that better reflect human cognitive processes rather than merely relying on larger models and data sets. This philosophical shift aims to inform safer and more beneficial AI systems, ultimately benefiting society as a whole. With the conference concluded, the participants returned to their respective labs and companies equipped with new insights and connections. As researchers continue to explore the intersections between human intelligence and artificial capability, the lasting impact of this conference may manifest in groundbreaking innovations that help address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, redefining not only the future of AI but also our understanding of intelligence itself.