From Community Screening to Neuroimaging: Training for Early Detection of Cognitive Decline in Baltic–German Collaboration

On February 2, 2026, a project titled “From Community Screening to Neuroimaging: Training for Early Detection of Cognitive Decline in Baltic–German Collaboration” was launched at the Faculty of Medicine of Vilnius University. The project is implemented within the framework of the Baltic-German University Liaison Office and is supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with funds from the Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany. The consortium brings together Vilnius University (VU, Lithuania), Riga Stradiņš University (RSU, Latvia), and Universitätsklinikum Jena (UKJ, Germany), combining complementary expertise in neuroimaging and biomarkers (VU), test adaptation (RSU), and clinical dementia research (UKJ). Vilnius University is the leading organization in the consortium. The project leader at Vilnius University is Prof. Inga Griškova-Bulanova.

The project focuses on cognitive decline, culminating in dementia, which poses a significant public health challenge in Europe. Early detection is crucial for timely interventions that delay deterioration, enhance quality of life, and reduce hospital burdens, while also fostering low-cost prevention in community settings. However, current practices are fragmented: assessment tools lack adaptation to local populations, biomarkers are not fully integrated into practice, and methodological variability complicates reproducibility in research. To address these challenges, this project seeks to bridge the gap between community screening and advanced neuroimaging for early detection. It emphasizes Baltic–German cooperation, combining methodological expertise, clinical perspectives, and innovative functional neuroimaging techniques.

The project’s novelty lies in integrating accessible and scalable functional biomarkers (EEG, fNIRS, eye tracking) within a cohesive framework that includes test adaptation and clinical cohort development. Capacity-building is a core component, facilitated through workshops, bootcamps, and a conference. These initiatives aim to equip both early-career and established researchers with essential skills, leading to outputs like systematic review protocols and methodological frameworks that extend beyond the project's duration.

Project start date: February 2, 2026.

Project end date: October 31, 2026.

Project funding: this project of the Baltic-German University Liaison Office is supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with funds from the Foreign Office of the Federal Republic Germany.

Baltic–German “Mapping Early Brain Change” Bootcamp

What is the Baltic–German “Mapping Early Brain Change” Bootcamp?

The Baltic–German Bootcamp is a small, intensive, mentorship-driven training programme for early-stage researchers who want to develop translational thinking beyond single-method approaches. It brings together researchers from the Baltics and Germany to work in small interdisciplinary teams under the guidance of senior mentors. The format is structured, collaborative, and research-focused: participants do not simply attend sessions — they work as part of an active research team. The working language is English.

How does the Bootcamp Work?

Step 1 – Choose Your Track

We offer 3 thematic research tracks (Bootcamp 1, Bootcamp 2 and Bootcamp 3) reflecting different stages of the translational pathway — from community-level cognitive screening to functional brain-based measures and co-created awareness initiatives. Apply to the track that best matches your interests and skills. We value motivation, intellectual curiosity, and readiness to work collaboratively.

Step 2 – Team Formation

Selected participants are assigned to small interdisciplinary teams (3–5 researchers). Each team is supervised by at least one senior mentor from Lithuania, Latvia, or Germany. From the outset, you work as collaborators. Together, you define roles, milestones, and a feasible research plan.

Step 3 – Working Phase

Over several months, teams meet regularly online. Targeted workshops provide methodological input aligned with project needs. During this phase, you will: refine research questions; develop study protocols; address methodological challenges; structure a publishable manuscript; receive cross-institutional mentor feedback.

Step 4 – Presentation and Continuation

Teams will have the opportunity to present their Bootcamp outcomes at a final conference in Vilnius, gaining feedback and academic visibility. The objective is to translate this work into concrete research outputs.

Who Can Apply?

The call is open to early-stage researchers (ESRs) pursuing or preparing for a scientific career in human neuroscience, cognitive ageing, brain health, or related fields. Eligible applicants include: Master’s students; PhD candidates; Medical students or residents; Researchers at the beginning of their academic careers. We welcome applications from neuroscience, psychology, medicine, rehabilitation sciences, biomedical sciences, engineering, data science, public health, and related disciplines. There are no restrictions regarding age, gender, or nationality within the partner framework. Motivation, commitment, and readiness to work in a small interdisciplinary team are essential.

Important Dates

Announcement of research tracks & Call for applications
1 March 2026

Application deadline
20 March 2026

Selection & team formation
Late March 2026

Active research phase
April 2026 – September 2026

Why take part in the Bootcamp?

Participation in the Bootcamp offers hands-on experience in international, interdisciplinary research within a structured Baltic–German collaboration. The programme is designed to lead to tangible outcomes, such as authorship on a systematic review protocol, contribution to a methodological framework, or presentation at the final mini-conference. By joining the Bootcamp, you become part of a cross-border research network. You will gain access to workshops, mentorship, and future collaboration opportunities. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate of participation.

Participant Responsibilities

Participants are expected to: Actively collaborate within their assigned team; Follow the agreed structure and timeline; Attend regular meetings and workshops; Contribute consistently throughout the programme; Dedicate the time specified in the chosen track; Communicate proactively with mentors about challenges. The Bootcamp is a collaborative research process. Commitment, reliability, and openness to feedback are essential.

How do I apply?

To apply for the Bootcamp, please submit your application by email no later than 0 March 2026. Applications should be sent to Prof. Inga Griškova-Bulanova at . In the subject line of your email, please write: Bootcamp Application – [Your Surname].

Your application should be submitted as a single .docx or .pdf file, named Surname_BootcampApplication. The application form includes a short CV summary, a motivation statement, a description of your relevant skills and experience, and your preferred research track. No additional documents are required unless specifically requested.

All applications will be reviewed by the project coordinators and track mentors from Vilnius University, Riga Stradiņš University, and Universitätsklinikum Jena. Within approximately two weeks after the deadline, applicants will be informed about the outcome. All application materials will be treated confidentially.

Costs and Funding

There are no participation fees for the Bootcamp.

The Bootcamp is implemented within the project “From Community Screening to Neuroimaging: Training for Early Detection of Cognitive Decline in Baltic–German Collaboration”, funded by the Baltic–German University Liaison Office (Hochschulkontor) under the Baltica Germanica and Innovativa programme line.

Workshop: Designing Clinical Trials for Dementia-Risk Cohorts: Practical Strategies for Success

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