Stephanie J Forkel
Language Neuroscience | Neurovariability | Precision Neuroscience
I lead pioneering research into the neuroanatomy of language and the structured diversity of the human brain.
By combining advanced neuroimaging and postmortem dissections with open and inclusive science, my team investigates how variability in brain networks shapes cognition, behaviour, and recovery.
These methods and research foci underpin my broader leadership in international neuroscience initiatives, from OHBM Programme Chair to co-founding the Neuroscience Alliance NGO.
Patent: Anatomical models for clinical and educational use (WIPO 003823012-0001)
RESEARCH TOPICS:
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Neurobiology of language and white-matter variability
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Predictors of recovery in stroke, primary progressive aphasia, and brain tumours
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Comparative & evolutionary neuroanatomy
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Structure–function mapping across neurological disease
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Emergentist models of brain–behaviour relationships
TEACHNIQUES & METHODS:
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Advanced MRI: structural & diffusion imaging, tractography, connectivity mapping
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Post mortem Klingler dissections for microsurgical neuroanatomy
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Lesion–symptom mapping & disconnectome modelling
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Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (nTMS)
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3D modelling & printing for clinical and educational innovation
Qualifications
Professional Accreditations & Academic Degrees
Ius Promovendi at Radboud University
2023
The ius promovendi, in Dutch higher education, is the right to promote and supervise doctoral students as promoter.
Extended University Teaching Qualification
(UTQ)
2023
The Dutch extended University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) is proof of the didactical competence of lecturers in academic education. All 14 Dutch universities recognise the UTQ.
Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches
(HDR | Dr. habil | Privatdozent |
ius promovendi)
2021
Habilitation is the highest European university degree. The candidate fulfils a university's set criteria of excellence in research, teaching and further education. The habilitation is awarded after a public lecture, after which the venia legendi ("permission to read") is bestowed.
The degree is a qualification for a full professorship and is known as HDR in FR, Privatdozent or Dr. habil. in DE or ius promovendi in NL.
L'autorisation à diriger une thèse (ADT)
2021
Authorization to supervise a thesis (ADT) is granted by the Academic Council (CAC), on the advice of the Council of the doctoral school of the University of Bordeaux.
Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol)
2019
The title of Chartered Psychologist is legally recognised and reflects the highest standard of psychological knowledge and expertise. More information available from the British Psychological Society.
Senior Fellow Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)
2018
Senior Fellowship is awarded to professionals who demonstrate they meet the criteria of the UK Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF) for teaching and supporting learning in higher education. A Senior Fellow of HEA presents a thorough understanding of effective approaches to teaching and learning support as a key contribution to high-quality learning.
More information available from AdvanceHE.
PhD Neuroimaging
King's College London, UK
2009 – 2013
I obtained my doctorate in applied clinical neuroimaging after successfully completing a multicentre stroke study. In my PhD, I demonstrated that neurovariability is a critical predictive factor for recovery after stroke.
The results are available in Brain, 2014.
Associate Fellow Higher Education Academy (AFHEA)
2011
Fellowship demonstrates a personal and institutional commitment to professionalism in learning and teaching in higher education. Across four categories, from Associate to Principal, Fellowship provides individuals with recognition of their practice, impact and leadership of teaching and learning.
More information is available from AdvanceHE.
Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice (GCAP)
2010 - 2011
The Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice in Higher Education is the first qualification in teaching practice for academic staff. It is increasingly recognised that individuals responsible for the student learning experience in universities in the UK should have access to a teaching qualification and/or Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (HEA). The GCAP provides a route to both a qualification in higher education academic practice and recognition as a Fellow of AdvanceHE.
MSc Neuroscience
King's College London, UK
2008 - 2009
The MSc Neuroscience covers key areas of psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience and neurology. More information o the MSc website.
Psychology (Honours)
National University of Ireland, Galway
2007 - 2008
Graduates are eligible for membership to relevant professional societies and entry to specialist postgraduate professional programmes. More information is available from the NUIG website.
Psychology, Paris Lodron Universität Salzburg, Austria
2005 - 2008
Psychology at the University of Salzburg has a strong STEM orientation covering essential classes on biological psychology, statistics, and neuropsychology. More information available from the University website.
Academic & Leadership Appointments
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