Professor Sophie Scott

Professor Sophie Scott is a neuroscientist and the Director of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London. Her research focuses on the neural mechanisms underlying vocal communication, exploring how the brain processes speech and voice, as well as the expression of emotion through vocalisation. With a keen interest in individual differences in speech perception and the implications for cochlear implant users, she has made significant contributions to our understanding of communication. Sophie’s work has garnered recognition beyond academia, as she actively engages the public through various platforms, including stand-up comedy and popular science presentations. Her ability to convey complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner has led to her participation in notable programmes such as BBC Radio 4's The Infinite Monkey Cage and the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, where she explored the science of communication. Sophie was elected a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, acknowledging her innovative research that bridges speech sciences, psychology, and neuroanatomy. Her pioneering studies have provided insights into the early perceptual processing of speech and its parallels in non-human primates, contributing to advancements in understanding recovery from aphasia and the adaptation to hearing loss. Sophie’s accolades include being appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to neuroscience and receiving the Royal Society’s Michael Faraday Prize. With over 130 scientific publications to her name, she is a respected voice in her field and a sought-after speaker at international conferences, including TED and the World Economic Forum. Through her multifaceted career, Sophie continues to inspire and educate, making significant strides in both scientific research and public engagement.