Princeton Neuroscience Institute (PNI) and Rutgers Brain Health Institute (BHI) Social Science Mixer
On October 24, more than 60 postdoctoral fellows and graduate students gathered at the Princeton Neuroscience Institute (PNI) for the first-ever BHI × PNI Social Science Mixer—a new initiative designed to strengthen scientific and social connections across New Jersey’s two major neuroscience hubs. The event was co-organized by Dr. Jac Eisdorfer (Rutgers, Chair of the Postdoctoral Alliance Working Group PAWG), Maia Choi (Rutgers, Co-Chair of the PAWG, Hannah Nacht (Rutgers, NIH Fellow), and Dr. Dan Vahaba (Princeton, Scientific Engagement Manager).
The mixer aimed to create space for meaningful, cross-institutional interaction, and the event exceeded our expectations! The event quickly turned into an afternoon of energy, laughter, and collaboration. Trainees toured Princeton’s state-of-the-art neuroscience facilities, exchanged stories about their research, and discovered surprising overlaps in their approaches and expertise. As the day unfolded, attendees competed enthusiastically in trivia and bingo (with prizes that inspired more than a little friendly rivalry) and lingered hours after the formal program ended to continue conversations.
The most rewarding outcome may be the new relationships that emerged. Several attendees described “meet-cute” scientific friendships that began that day! Others initiated early discussions about future postdoctoral opportunities with Rutgers Ph.D. students potentially heading to Princeton labs, and Princeton trainees eyeing Rutgers collaborations. These early sparks of partnership are exactly what the event was designed to ignite!
Given the resounding success of this inaugural mixer, it’s no surprise that everyone is already counting down to the next one. The BHI × PNI partnership will continue on March 27, 2026, when Rutgers will host the return event. If October’s turnout is any indication, this collaboration marks the start of a beautiful and enduring tradition!
Empowering the Next Generation of Neuroscience Leaders
At the Brain Health Institute, we are committed to training and supporting future neuroscientists through comprehensive programs and resources. Our trainees benefit from hands-on research opportunities, mentorship from leading experts, and access to professional development initiatives. Whether you’re a graduate student or postdoc, BHI provides the foundation you need to excel in your career and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in brain health.
