Sara De Witte

As a neuroscientist with a background in clinical psychology, my work focuses on understanding neuropsychological mechanisms underlying mental health and neurodegenerative disorders. Combining neuroimaging and non-invasive brain stimulation, I aim to improve both the prediction and treatment of these conditions.

In November 2023, I successfully defended my Ph.D. thesis, titled Unraveling Stress Regulation Mechanisms Using Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Techniques Applied to the Left DLPFC. During my doctoral research, I investigated stress adaptation mechanisms using personalized non-invasive brain stimulation and contributed to the development of a stepped-care treatment protocol for severe melancholic depression, combining neurostimulation, medication, and cognitive training. Additionally, I collaborated with the veterinary department in Merelbeke to explore the potential of non-invasive brain stimulation as a treatment for anxious (aggressive) dogs.

Following my Ph.D., I joined the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) as a postdoctoral researcher within the Center for Neuroscience (C4N) and the Neuroprotection and Neuromodulation (NEUR) research group. In my current role as research manager for Alzheimer’s disease studies, I focus on exploring the potential of neurostimulation techniques in the context of neurodegenerative diseases.

Despite my transition to the VUB, I maintain a close collaboration with the GHEP-lab, ensuring continuity in shared research initiatives and contributing to ongoing projects in mental health and neurodegenerative research.