Brain Bee

The International Brain Bee (IBB) is a global neuroscience competition designed for high school students, with the primary goal of encouraging interest in the brain sciences and inspiring future careers in research and clinical neuroscience. The competition promotes understanding of the human brain, including its functions, disorders, and the technologies used to study it.

Established in 1998 by Dr. Norbert Myslinski of the University of Maryland, the IBB began with a dozen local chapters in North America. Since then, it has expanded significantly, now comprising over 160 chapters across more than 40 countries and six continents. Each year, approximately 30,000 students participate, progressing through local, national, and international levels of competition. The international championship is organized under the International Brain Bee Consortium, which includes leading neuroscience and psychology organizations such as:

• American Psychological Association

• Dana Foundation

• Federation of European Neuroscience Societies

• International Brain Research Organization

• Society for Neuroscience

Participants are typically supported by local coordinators—many of whom are neuroscientists, educators, or outreach professionals based in universities, schools, museums, and scientific institutions. The competition garners wide media attention, and winners are often recognized by government and diplomatic figures. Many past participants have gone on to pursue careers in neuroscience, psychology, medicine, and biomedical research.

To prepare, students study a standardized set of freely available educational materials translated into over 20 languages. Topics covered include sensory systems, cognition, emotion, motor control, and consciousness, as well as neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and addiction. The IBB also explores experimental techniques and diagnostic tools used in neuroscience.

While the core format is based on oral questions, advanced levels may include hands-on components such as neuroanatomy labs, microscope-based histology, clinical case evaluations using simulated patients, and interpretation of neuroimaging data.

The IBB operates as a non-profit, grassroots initiative, primarily funded by private donations and supported by a broad network of academic, scientific, and educational institutions. Championships are often hosted in conjunction with major scientific conferences such as those organized by the APA, IBRO, CAN, and others.

The IBB continues to grow as a platform for academic excellence and international collaboration. Educators and institutions are encouraged to establish local chapters, and students are invited to participate in what is not only a rigorous competition but also a rewarding introduction to the frontiers of neuroscience.