Cognito is the student association of the research master Brain and Cognitive Sciences (MBCS) in Amsterdam – a collaborative effort of the Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies (IIS) and University of Amsterdam (UvA). Each year about 60 new students are selected to start the program, divided into three tracks: Cognitive Science, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Behavioural Neuroscience. We are a small but enthusiastic student union that comprises of a number of committees and the Cognito board.
Cognito organises both educational and social events. For instance, each year, the board hosts CogniTalks, an evening of short TEDTalk-style lectures. In 2021, the board hosted a six-part event series on diversity in science and academia, funded by Grassroots Science4All. The social committee organises one fun event almost every month, including a weekend away! By organising these events, we aim to build community among our students, alumni, and researchers.