Bio
Ben Rein, PhD is a neuroscientist by training and science communicator whose research has focused on the neuroscience of empathy, the genetic basis of autism spectrum disorder, and how synaptic deficits modulate social behavior. In his postdoctoral work with Dr. Robert Malenka, Ben characterized the neurobiological mechanism by which MDMA acts as an "empathogen." His research has been honored with awards from the NIH, the Society for Neuroscience, and Sigma Xi.
Outside of the lab, Ben creates educational science videos for an audience of >1 million social media followers. His videos summarize recent research papers, teach neuroscience basics, and debunk viral videos containing misinformation. They have received over 60 million views and been featured on Good Morning America, ABC News, and other major media outlets. Ben has been profiled by Popular Mechanics and Spectrum News, appeared on Entertainment Tonight, and joined over 40 podcasts including StarTalk with Neil DeGrasse Tyson. Ben's science communication efforts have been recognized with awards from the National Academies of Science, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and the Society for Neuroscience.
Ben currently serves as the Chief Science Officer of the Mind Science Foundation and has served as a scientific/media consultant for more than 35 companies and foundations. He is a contributing editor at OpenMind Magazine, and the Founder & President of the Aspiring Scientists Coalition, an organization providing free guidance for students in 75+ countries.
