Eti Ben Simon, PhD
Research Assistant Professor Associate Director, Sleep Innovation Laboratories
Dr. Eti Ben Simon studies the neural mechanisms of sleep-dependent behavior in humans, specifically the emotional and social changes that take place as a result of sleep loss. Her pioneering research was the first to demonstrate the negative impact of sleep deprivation on prosocial altruism and identify its neural underpinnings using several neuroimaging tools.
Coming in 2026, the Sleep Innovation Laboratories at Center for BrainHealth and UT Dallas will be uniquely poised to bridge foundational neuroscience with real-world application, advancing human potential through sleep innovation.
A leading expert in emotional and social consequences of sleep deprivation, Dr. Ben Simon will lead investigations into how sleep impacts cognitive flexibility, emotional regulation and social decision-making — areas that directly relate to brain resilience and quality of life. Her pioneering studies have shown how even one night of insufficient sleep can heighten anxiety, reduce empathy and impair ability to connect meaningfully with others.