About me & my research

Brain health refers to the state of brain functioning across cognitive, sensory, social-emotional, behavioural and motor domains. Brain health is fundamental to our mental and physical well-being. In the long run, it protects us against neurodegenerative disease such as dementia, but also in early life, it allows a person to realize their full potential. Notably, brain health is shaped by a complex interplay of external and molecular factors that begins early in life and continues to impact us throughout adulthood. Understanding these determinants—and translating this knowledge to support individual growth—drives my research agenda. My work centers around three key aims:

Mapping external determinants of brain health

Stress, mental health, and social factors have substantial impacts on brain health across the life course. My first aim is to systematically map these external determinants, identifying how they associate with brain health across different developmental stages. And indeed, from prenatal to adulthood, stress is linked to brain health outcomes. But also people with more mental health problems seem to have poorer brain health, while this seems to be particularly evident in childhood. This work lays the foundation for understanding how external experiences, particularly those pertaining stress and mental health, interact with the brain in ways that support or impair resilience.

Elucidating molecular determinants of brain health

At the molecular level, brain health is shaped by various biological mechanisms. I focus on three cutting-edge “omics”—DNA methylation, microRNAs, and the gut microbiome—to uncover how these molecular pathways contribute to brain health. By identifying the biological signatures that associate with mental and neurological resilience, my research clarifies which molecular processes strengthen or weaken brain health over the lifespan. Witht his research, we can identify a molecular fingerprint of brain health, that could one day personalize brain health interventions.

Building predictive models for brain health

Ultimately, by integrating external and molecular determinants, my final aim is to develop predictive models using artificial intelligence, that can advance brain health diagnostics and personalized care. Through a multi-omics approach embedded in population-based research, I aim to build models that improve diagnostic precision, provide insights into individual conditions, and broaden access to targeted treatments. Eventually, these tools will foster a more inclusive understanding of brain health, enabling individuals to realize their full potential.