Sofia El-Khoury is a pioneering neuroscientist, educator, and advocate for mental health equity. Born in Beirut and raised between Lebanon and France, Sofia bridges cutting-edge science with culturally grounded healing practices to improve how we understand—and care for—the human mind.

With a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and a background in trauma-informed education, Sofia has spent over 15 years researching the impact of conflict, displacement, and chronic stress on the brain. Her work spans academic labs, refugee camps, and classrooms—from publishing in top journals to developing mental wellness programs for youth in crisis-affected regions.

Her mission is to make neuroscience accessible, human-centered, and inclusive. She believes science should serve the people, not just the academy—and that healing is both a biological and social process.

What’s fueled her lasting impact in neuroscience and mental health?

👉 Deep empathy shaped by personal and cultural resilience
👉 Commitment to decolonizing mental health research
👉 Passion for education that heals, not just informs

Sofia brings a rare ability to translate complex science into tools for everyday well-being. She works with educators, therapists, nonprofits, and policymakers to co-create trauma-responsive systems and mental health supports—especially for marginalized communities. She also mentors young scientists and mental health advocates, especially women and underrepresented students in STEM.

Outside of work?

You’ll find her hiking along coastal trails, creating visual journals that blend art and science, or teaching mindfulness practices rooted in Levantine traditions.

How She Can Help

1️⃣ Translating Neuroscience into Accessible Mental Health Practices
2️⃣ Supporting Trauma-Informed Teaching & Leadership
3️⃣ Mentoring Women & Minorities in Science, Tech & Research
4️⃣ Designing Community-Based Mental Wellness Programs
5️⃣ Facilitating Science Communication & Public Engagement
6️⃣ Bridging Western Psychology & Indigenous Healing Frameworks
7️⃣ Leading Cross-Disciplinary Mental Health Projects
8️⃣ Advising on Policy for Mental Health Equity & Education
9️⃣ Promoting Culturally Responsive Neuroscience Research
🔟 Building Resilience Tools for Communities Affected by Conflict or Displacement