Dr. Adele Diamond
Adele Diamond, Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Canada Research Chair in the Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience has received the Honourary Doctorate (Doctor of Philosophy Honoris Causa) from Ben-Gurion University, Israel.
One of the pioneers in the field of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, Dr. Diamond is at the forefront of research on the executive functions which depend on prefrontal cortex and interrelated brain regions. Executive functions include ‘thinking outside the box’ (cognitive flexibility), mentally relating ideas and facts (working memory), and giving considered responses rather than impulsive ones, resisting temptations and staying focused (inhibitory control, including selective attention). Recently, she has turned her attention to the possible roles of traditional activities, such as music and dance, in improving executive functions, academic outcomes, and mental health. Last year, she was ranked 13th of the top 30 Most Influential Neuroscientists Alive Today by the Online Psychology Degree Guide.
Ben-Gurion University bestowed honorary doctorates on 7 ground-breaking scientists, inventors and philanthropists on May 12, 2015 in the Cummings Plaza on the Marcus Family Campus in Beer-Sheva. The ceremony was held during the 45th Board of Governors Meeting.
Ben-Gurion University interviewed all 7 of the awardees in a short video. Watch the Dr. Diamond’s video below: