What if the secret to human intelligence isn’t just in how many neurons we have, but in the specific genetic “glitches” that slowed down our brain’s development? In recognition of their outstanding scientific contributions to understanding the neurobiological foundations of human cognition, NOMIS researchers Franck Polleux and Pierre Vanderhaeghen have been awarded the 2025 Fyssen Foundation International Prize.
The Fyssen Foundation announced that its International Prize has been exceptionally awarded to two laureates this year. The prize, dedicated to the theme “Neurobiological Foundations of Human Cognition,” recognizes Franck Polleux and Pierre Vanderhaeghen for the significance and impact of their scientific contributions.
The Fyssen Foundation is committed to supporting and rewarding scientific excellence in key disciplines such as social anthropology, paleontology, archaeology, ethology, ethnology, psychology and neurobiology. Its International Prize is awarded to scientists who have conducted distinguished research in these areas. The prize will be presented at an official ceremony in June 2026.
Neurobiological Foundations of Human Cognition
Cognition has evolved along the human lineage and is particularly developed in Homo sapiens along with the complexity of social interactions. The elucidation of the particularities in the development, organization and functional properties of the human brain which allow these performances is a major scientific challenge. Progress in that direction requires the combination of multiple approaches and disciplines.
Polleux and Vanderhaeghen are exploring these topics in part through the Human Brain Evolution Initiative, which they lead together with James Noonan.
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Read the Fyssen Foundation announcement: International Prize 2025
Columbia University’s Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute: ZI Friday Funding Monthly Digest: Dr. Polleux wins the Fyssen International Prize!
Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB): Pierre Vanderhaeghen receives the 2025 Fyssen Foundation International Prize
