Kathryn Lester

Kathryn Lester, PsyD, ABPP, serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology at Drexel University and directs the Neuropsychology program, conducting outpatient evaluations across the lifespan. Board-certified in clinical neuropsychology, she specializes in brain-behavior relationships for neurological and psychiatric conditions, with expertise in differentiating cognitive manifestations of underlying diseases.

Her educational foundation includes:

• PsyD in Clinical Psychology, Widener University Institute of Graduate Clinical Psychology (2009)
• MA in Psychology, Widener University Institute of Graduate Clinical Psychology (2007)
• BA in Psychology, University of Pennsylvania (2002)

Dr. Lester's research program emphasizes neurodegenerative diseases (particularly Alzheimer's), sleep-cognition interactions, mild traumatic brain injury, and emerging neuromodulation therapies like rTMS. Her work bridges clinical practice through investigations of epilepsy surgery outcomes, radiation therapy effects on cognition, and functional assessments such as driving safety in multiple sclerosis, consistently focusing on the clinical utility of neuropsychological measures.

Analysis of her 2009-2012 publications reveals strong methodological rigor in surgical outcome prediction (Wada testing), longitudinal cognitive monitoring in neuro-oncology, and validation of assessment tools for real-world functioning. Key thematic threads include memory system dissociation in frontal disorders, developmental considerations in pediatric epilepsy, and the interface between subjective complaints and objective test performance.

Her professional recognition includes:

• Suzanne Reed Price Neuropsychology Award (Widener University, 2007-2008)
• American Epilepsy Society Top 10% Paper Presentation Award (2010)

Prior to Drexel, Dr. Lester co-taught graduate courses at Medical College of Georgia (2009-2011). While specific grant details aren't documented here, her publication record suggests active research funding. As program director, she provides clinical leadership for neuropsychological assessment services.

The Neuropsychology program under her direction delivers comprehensive evaluations for developmental and acquired neurological conditions, integrating assessment findings with treatment planning across the lifespan.