The brain remains the epicenter of human behavior. Neuropsychology has played a central role in advancing our understanding of the complex relationships between brain structure, function, and emergent behavior, particularly in the context of how disruptions of brain systems lead to neurocognitive symptoms. As the field evolves, neuropsychology is increasingly shaped by the rise of big data, rapid technological advancements in assessment and rehabilitation, and a growing emphasis on community-engaged research and clinical practice. Innovations in paper-and-pencil assessments, computerized testing, virtual reality, ecological momentary assessment, neuroimaging and non-invasive brain stimulation are expanding the horizons of research and practice. And these horizons must extend to the development of appropriate and accurate neuropsychological methods to meet the needs of children and adults with neurobehavioral and cognitive disorders around the world if we are to remain a truly international society. For the 54th Annual Meeting of the International Neuropsychological Society in Philadelphia, we were inspired by the many ways in which our community continues to push the boundaries of knowledge to study the brain-behavior interface, leading to the theme of this conference: Neuropsychology in the Age of Innovation.

We encourage abstract submissions to embrace broader conceptualizations of innovation. This could include novel methods for assessing cognitive and functional outcomes, such as the use of within-person test distributions to capture cognitive variability as a biomarker for risk, or the use of ecological momentary assessment and other indirect, unobtrusive measures of cognitive behavior. With the frequent use of neuroimaging and neuromodulation techniques by neuropsychologists, we encourage submissions that incorporate these methodologies in unique ways to advance our understanding of critical, specific brain-behavior relationships.

This past year’s annual meeting in New Orleans also highlighted the innovative and creative methods employed by neuropsychologists to study and address disparities within our field. Continuing the much-needed efforts of last year’s conference, we also encourage abstract submissions that focus on novel ways of incorporating social and structural determinants of health, as well as community involvement in the design and validation of assessment and intervention efforts. Abstract submissions that focus on conceptual and methodological advancements in cross-cultural neuropsychology are particularly encouraged.

This year’s meeting will be held in the historic city of Philadelphia—one of the oldest cities in the United States. Our conference, focused on innovation, aims to highlight the future of neuropsychological science and practice while honoring the pioneering contributions of our predecessors.