Leon Deouell

Professor Leon Y. Deouell holds the Jack H. Skirball Chair in Brain Research at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's Department of Psychology. His career began in medicine before pivoting to neuroscience through transformative encounters with cognitive neuropsychology and computational neuroscience. Affiliations include leadership roles at the Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Research and involvement in brain imaging initiatives. Education highlights include MD training and a PhD in computational neuroscience from Hebrew University, followed by postdoctoral work at UC Berkeley with mentors Bob Knight and Mark D'Esposito.

Research focuses on conscious awareness mechanisms, particularly through studies of unilateral neglect and auditory processing. Methodological expertise spans EEG/ECOG/fMRI. Teaching passions include undergraduate and graduate mentorship despite ongoing performance anxieties. Career challenges include navigating grant rejections and administrative roles as department head (2012-2015). Collaborative networks include global partnerships and interdisciplinary projects blending neuroscience with philosophy.

• Key mentors: Dr. Nachum Soroker, Sari Bentin, Bob Knight
• Notable projects: Formation of brain imaging center at Hebrew University
• Publications appeared in Brain and Neuron

Personal philosophy emphasizes curiosity-driven science and admiration for students' creativity. Maintains active engagement in teaching despite managerial discomfort, valuing academia's collaborative global community.