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Heather McKellar
Executive Director, Neuroscience Institute at NYU Langone Health
Professional Background
Heather McKellar is an accomplished neuroscientist and leader in the field of neuroscience education and outreach. With over a decade of experience at leading health and academic institutions, Heather is currently the Executive Director of the Neuroscience Institute at NYU Langone Health, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing neuroscience research and education. Her work involves overseeing various programs that aim to disseminate knowledge and deepen the public's understanding of neuroscience. Heather's passion for bridging the gap between scientific research and public comprehension has fueled her career, making her a distinguished figure in the neuroscience community.
Previously, Heather held several key positions at NYU Langone Health, including Assistant Director of Education and Outreach, where she worked diligently to develop educational programs that engage both the public and the scientific community. Heather's expertise in creating effective educational outreach initiatives reflects her commitment to increasing awareness about neuroscience and its implications for health and well-being. As Senior Manager of Education and Outreach Programs, she implemented substantial changes in program structure, leading to enhanced learning opportunities for attendees of all ages.
With a strong foundation in research, Heather began her career as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Columbia University after earning her PhD in Neuroscience. During her time at Columbia, she focused on cutting-edge research that has contributed to our understanding of neural mechanisms. This invaluable experience has imbued her teaching and outreach programs with scientific rigor and relevance.
Heather's leadership skills extend beyond her current role; she has served on various committees, including the Public Education and Communication Committee of the Society for Neuroscience, where she advocated for better communication of neuroscientific findings to the general populace. Additionally, as the former President of the Greater New York City Chapter of the Society for Neuroscience (braiNY), she worked to foster collaborations among neuroscience professionals, enhancing the local scientific community's engagement.
Education and Achievements
Heather's education showcases her dedication and passion for neuroscience from an early age. She completed her high school education at the Taft School, where her interest in life sciences began to flourish. Following her high school years, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Biology, with a focus on Neuroscience, from Boston University. This formative experience laid the groundwork for her subsequent advanced studies.
Ultimately, Heather earned her PhD in Neuroscience from Columbia University in the City of New York, a prestigious institution known for its innovative research and academic excellence. Her doctoral research contributed significantly to the advancement of the field, highlighting her commitment to scientific inquiry and education.
Throughout her career, Heather has developed a myriad of impactful outreach programs that have effectively engaged countless individuals in the fascinating world of neuroscience. Her achievements in education are underscored by her leadership roles within prominent neuroscience organizations and initiatives that promote connectivity within the scientific community.
Achievements
- Leadership in Neuroscience Education: As Executive Director of the Neuroscience Institute at NYU Langone Health, Heather has revolutionized the organization’s approach to public neuroscience education, ensuring the dissemination of critical information related to neurological health and research.
- Community Engagement: Under her leadership, numerous educational programs were launched that have fostered greater public understanding of neuroscience topics, effectively bridging the gap between researchers and the community. Her commitment to outreach and engagement has inspired many initiatives aimed at demystifying complex neuroscientific concepts.
- Professional Recognition: Heather's contributions to the field of neuroscience have been recognized through various awards and honors within the neuroscience community, showcasing her dedication and impact.
- Advocacy for Neuroscience Communication: Through her role in the Society for Neuroscience, Heather has been instrumental in advocating for effective communication strategies that enhance public perception and understanding of neuroscience. Her efforts help to cultivate a well-informed public that appreciates scientific discovery and its implications.
- Educational Program Development: During her tenure at NYU Langone Health, Heather designed and implemented innovative programs tailored to different audiences, including students, educators, and the general public, thereby enhancing their knowledge and appreciation for neuroscience.
- Networking and Collaboration: As a former President of braiNY, she fostered a collaborative environment that strengthened the local neuroscience community, encouraging the sharing of ideas and best practices among neuroscientists in the Greater New York area.
Through her dedicated efforts in education, outreach, and research, Heather McKellar continues to make significant contributions to the field of neuroscience and is an exemplary leader in advancing public engagement with science.
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