Ava Easton

Dr. Ava Easton is a globally recognized researcher and Chief Executive of Encephalitis International, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals affected by encephalitis. She holds the title of Senior Honorary Fellow at the University of Liverpool in the Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, where her work bridges clinical neurology, global health, and patient narratives.

• PhD in Narrative Medicine (University of York, 2014)
• BSc in Applied Social Sciences (Open University, age 33)

Her research focuses on encephalitis patient outcomes, quality of life, narrative medicine, and patient/public engagement. She has pioneered initiatives like World Encephalitis Day and leads patient involvement in major studies, including the COVID-Clinical Neuroscience Study and Brain Infections/COVID Neuro Global Studies. Her work emphasizes the intersection of clinical research, public health advocacy, and storytelling to improve post-encephalitis care.

The 15 most recent articles (2016–2021) reflect her expertise in encephalitis epidemiology, neuroimmunology, and neurology, with increasing focus on Covid-19 neurological complications in later years. Themes include diagnostic pathways, autoimmune encephalitis, long-term cognitive effects, and patient-reported outcomes.

• Charity Leader of the Year – Charity Times Awards – Highly Commended, 2022
• CEO of the Year – Third Sector Awards – Finalist 2021
• Inspiring Communicator of the Year – Charity Comms – Winner 2019
• Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Garden Party invitee – 2012

Easton collaborates extensively with organizations like the European Brain Injury Council, Royal Society of Medicine, and Global Health Network. She also serves as a media consultant for TV shows like Hollyoaks and Channel 4, informing public narratives about encephalitis and brain injury.