The University of Orléans and Le Studium, Loire Valley Institute of Advanced Studies will host three high-profile international conferences in 2026, attracting researchers, industry leaders, and scholars from around the world. These events showcase cutting-edge research across energy sustainability, neuroscience, and sport psychology and are all open to ATHENA partners.
1. Expanding Horizons in Serotonin Research: From Multifaceted Roles to 5-HT7 Receptor Innovations
Dates : 6–7 May 2026
Place : Hôtel Dupanloup, Orléans
Learn More : here
Register : here
This international neuroscience conference brings together leading experts to explore recent breakthroughs in serotonin biology, especially focused on the 5-HT7 receptor. Serotonin plays a vital role in both the central nervous system and peripheral physiology. The 5-HT7 subtype is emerging as a key player in diverse functions — from sleep regulation and neuropathic pain to immune modulation and cardiovascular health.
The program spans five thematic sessions that bridge molecular biology, pharmacology, clinical research, and innovative tools for receptor modulation. Hosted by the international consortium i5-HT7Net, this event fosters cross-disciplinary exchange in a historic setting beside Orléans’ cathedral.
Highlights:
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Serotonin’s roles in central and peripheral systems
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5-HT7 receptor function in health and disease
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Novel research tools and compounds
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Advanced experimental models and analytical techniques
2. International Conference of the Société Française de Psychologie du Sport (SFPS)
Dates: 27–30 May 2026
Place: Orléans, France
Learn more: here
Register: here
The International SFPS Conference is a leading event in sport psychology, convened by the Société Française de Psychologie du Sport and organized in collaboration with the SAPRéM laboratory at the University of Orléans. Over four days, scholars and practitioners will share insights on psychological processes in sport performance, talent identification, resilience, motivation, and mental preparation.
This multidisciplinary forum combines research presentations, keynotes, and workshops designed to enrich both academic knowledge and applied practice. With presenters from Europe and beyond, the conference fosters international collaboration in sport psychology research and practice.
3. Fourth Conference on the Metal-Enabled Cycle of Renewable Energy (MeCRE)
Dates: 9–10 June 2026
Place: Espace Saint Euverte, Orléans
Learn more: here
Register: here
The 4th MeCRE Conference focuses on innovative approaches to renewable energy systems using metal fuels, such as iron and aluminum, which offer high energy density and recyclability. With climate transition goals becoming ever more urgent, this scientific gathering will explore breakthroughs in metal combustion, redox processes, reactor technologies, and sustainable policy frameworks. Attendees can expect thought-provoking sessions, real-world case studies, and opportunities to forge collaborations across academia, industry, and public agencies.
Key themes include:
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Advances in metal-based energy carriers
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Integration of metal fuels in sustainable systems
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Environmental and regulatory frameworks
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Industrial and policy-driven collaboration
MeCRE aims to position metal fuels as viable pillars of the global clean-energy transition.
We are eager to see ATHENA partners coming together to discuss these innovative topics in Orléans !
