Youssef A. Kousa, MS, D.O., Ph.D.

Youssef A. Kousa, MS, D.O., Ph.D. is a distinguished physician-scientist specializing in neonatal neurology and neuroinfectious diseases. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Master of Science, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, and Doctor of Philosophy.4

Professional Background

Dr. Kousa completed the Physician-Scientist Training Program at Michigan State University, where he conducted his thesis research on the genetics and genomics of craniofacial development.1 He is currently an Assistant Professor in Neurology, Pediatrics, and Genomics & Precision Medicine at The George Washington University.

Clinical and Research Focus

As a prenatal and neonatal neurologist, Dr. Kousa has been at the forefront of developing synergistic teams to study the effects of emerging infectious diseases on the developing brain.2 His research interests include:

• Neuroinfectious diseases
• Neonatal neurology
• Genetics and genomics of brain development

Achievements and Grants

Dr. Kousa has received notable recognition for his work:

• He was awarded a K08 grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).2
• He received a Pediatric Epilepsy Research Grant.3
• He was awarded nearly $1 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study how viruses affect the developing brain.3

Current Positions

• Assistant Professor at The George Washington University
• Affiliated with Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC1

Dr. Kousa's multidisciplinary background in neurology, pediatrics, and genomics positions him as a leading researcher in understanding complex neurological conditions in children, particularly those related to infectious diseases and genetic factors.