Wayne State partners with MiSci to host Brain Day

Families, students and curious minds will have a chance to explore how the brain works during Brain Day in Detroit, returning Saturday, March 14, 2026, with interactive activities, demonstrations and opportunities to meet scientists.

The annual event is presented by Wayne State University's Ben L. Silberstein Institute for Brain Health, the Michigan Science Center (MiSci) and the Dana Foundation, and will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at MiSci.

Part of Brain Awareness Week, the event brings together researchers and students from across the university to share neuroscience and psychology research in an accessible, family-friendly setting that has become a long-running community tradition.

Visitors can explore returning activities such as holding a real human brain, viewing brain cells under a microscope and taking part in stations focused on memory and cognition. New interactive experiences this year will connect brain health with topics like movement, community wellness and how research can inform real-world decisions.

Dr. Lana Ruvolo Grasser, a psychology professor at Wayne State, is helping to organize the event. Her lab, the Ruvvy Resilience Lab, will host interactive activities tied to its research with youth.

"One of the most meaningful new additions in my eyes is a station where you can make a policy poster, to connect scientific research to real-world impact and be an advocate for science," she said.

Wayne State students will also volunteer at the event. They will lead activities and help visitors take part in hands-on experiences.

"Public outreach events like Brain Day in Detroit are important because they connect science to the everyday lives of our community and build trust around topics that affect every family, from memory to mental health," said Dr. Jessica Damoiseaux, director of the Ben L. Silberstein Institute for Brain Health.

The event also reflects the ongoing partnership between the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and MiSci, which creates opportunities for student internships, outreach and hands-on learning experiences.

Tickets are available in advance through MiSci, with walk-up tickets also available. Reduced fees are available with the Museums for All program.

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