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Neuroscientist & vocal communication expert

Professor Sophie Scott

Transform communication and neuroscience understanding with Professor Sophie Scott, speaker, neuroscientist and Director at UCL. Sophie works with organisations to explain complex brain mechanisms, vocal communication, and speech perception, delivering engaging insights recognised by the Royal Society and BBC.

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Sophie Scott, Speaker | Neuroscientist, UCL Director
Professor Sophie Scott

Professor Sophie Scott

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

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Professor Sophie Scott's biography

At a glance

  • Director of UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Pioneering researcher on vocal communication
  • Respected science communicator and public engagement leader
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.

Sophie's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Sophie

Book Professor Sophie Scott CBE for your event to engage your audience with her expertise in cognitive neuroscience and communication. Her lively presentation style, combined with her extensive research and public speaking experience, ensures a memorable and insightful experience that will resonate with attendees.

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Trusted by Specsavers Optical Superstores, UCL, Royal Society, BBC

Testimonials

Please pass on a huge thank you for her amazing key note speak. I was totally hooked throughout!

In a star turn interrupted by frequent, raucous laughter from the audience, Dr. Scott ranged from brain chemistry to the social life of bonobo apes to the neuropsychology of disgust.

New York Times

Sophie Scott's work is thought provoking, rigorous & brilliant. She's not only finding answers she's asking questions that reveal so much about our minds & our humanity.

Jimmy Carr

Featured Projects

Professor Sophie Scott - The Brain: 10 Things You Should Know book cover
Professor Sophie Scott - The Neuromantics podcast cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Professor Sophie Scott for my next event?
Email prof.sophie.scott@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Sophie's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Professor Sophie Scott's speaking style like?
Professor Sophie Scott draws on her neuroscience research into vocal communication and speech processing to structure her presentations, grounding accessible explanations of brain function in her own published findings and laboratory work.

What topics does Professor Sophie Scott specialise in?
Sophie Scott CBE speaks on the neuroscience of vocal communication, the brain's processing of speech and emotion, and the science of laughter and individual differences in speech perception. She is Director of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London, a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, and was appointed CBE for services to neuroscience; she has delivered the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures and spoken at TED and the World Economic Forum.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

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You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a booking?

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

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Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

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Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

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Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.