Julia Basso

Julia Basso is an Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech’s Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise, with affiliations in the School of Neuroscience and the Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research. Her work focuses on the intersection of mind-body-movement practices (e.g., dance, yoga, meditation) and brain function, emphasizing neural mechanisms underlying mental health and social behavior. She leads the Embodied Brain Lab, exploring how physical activity and mindfulness optimize brain health and motivation.

Education: Ph.D. in Behavioral and Neural Science (Rutgers University, 2013), B.A. in Neuroscience/Dance (Middlebury College, 2005). Key roles include Fellowships at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute and NIH-funded grants. Awards span academic excellence (Magna Cum Laude) to service recognition (CALS Service Award).

Research combines behavioral studies and neurophysiological methods (e.g., EEG) to address how movement practices enhance mood, memory, and social connections. Collaborative projects include studies on dance interventions during the pandemic and motivational mechanisms in exercise adherence.