About Us

Task Forces of the NBC

Select Members from this Commission's menu to view members of each of the task forces below.

Models of Epilepsy Task Force

• Advocate for and advance evidence-based use of epilepsy models to optimize translational relevance: The Task Force evaluates and classifies animal, in vitro, ex vivo, and emerging models (e.g. iPSC-derived systems, organoids), develops guidance on model selection and validity, and promotes rigorous and transparent preclinical research aligned with human epilepsy.
• Promote innovation, ethics, and responsible use of models: It supports the integration of artificial intelligence, addresses ethical frameworks and global policy for humane and responsible research (including the 3Rs), and develops position papers and standards for robust methodology, reporting, and ethical–scientific balance.
• Foster collaboration, education, and capacity building: The Task Force works closely with other ILAE task forces and commissions, and advances education and training to build expertise across epilepsy research communities.

Precision Therapy for Epilepsy Task Force

Preclinical Precision Medicine in Epilepsy

This task force promotes collaboration among basic scientists to accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets and advance precision medicine in epilepsy. By integrating cutting-edge research on epilepsy mechanisms, it aims to:

• Translate fundamental insights into patient-tailored preclinical interventions
• Refine experimental models to better reflect disease complexity
• Foster innovation that bridges basic science and clinical application for more effective, individualized epilepsy treatments

Goal: Create a structured framework to guide preclinical precision medicine research with clear relevance to clinical translation.

Education & Training Task Force

Education and training are essential activities for adequate preclinical research. The main objective of the Education & Training Task Force is to carry out educational activities and design resources focused on improving knowledge and skills in the neurobiology of epilepsy. These activities (courses, symposiums, workshops, online modules and collaborative programs) aim to facilitate training in basic and translational epilepsy research, mainly for young basic researchers from around the world.

Research Advocacy Task Force

The Research Advocacy Task Force works within the ILAE Strategic Plan and IGAP Objective 4 to strengthen the global impact of clinical and preclinical epilepsy research. It develops advocacy initiatives that improve research capacity, investment, output, and access, taking regional priorities into account.
In collaboration with the Global Advocacy Council, Executive Committee, media experts, and ILAE regional entities, the Task Force will:

• Identify research priorities and needs globally and regionally.
• Develop targeted advocacy strategies and materials for key audiences.
• Lead initiatives to enhance the capacity, investment, and impact of epilepsy research.
• Plan for the long-term sustainability of ILAE research advocacy efforts.

WONOEP Committee Task Force

The WONOEP Committee Taskforce aims to advance innovative epilepsy research by fostering bold ideas and exploratory dialogue, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration among basic, translational, and clinical scientists, and ensuring inclusive participation across all career stages through equitable abstract and program development. The Taskforce is committed to preserving WONOEP’s distinctive culture of open speculation and philosophical discussion while guiding future directions in epilepsy neurobiology by identifying emerging priorities and unmet needs. Additionally, it seeks to strengthen alignment with the ILAE and key sponsors to ensure coordinated strategy, adequate resources, and maximal global impact