Dr. Liisa Galea, a distinguished neuroscientist and mother, has made significant strides in understanding sex differences in brain function and disease. As the Treliving Family Chair in Women’s Mental Health at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Dr. Galea’s research has greatly contributed to addressing sex- and gender-based health disparities, particularly in mental health and aging-related conditions.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Dr. Galea has been named a 2025 Top 25 Women of Influence+ Award Recipient. This prestigious award celebrates women who have made a significant impact in their fields and championed change, advancing diversity and inclusion.
A dedicated mother, Dr. Galea’s work is profoundly influenced by her own experiences in motherhood. Her research has explored the impact of hormones on brain plasticity, cognition, and mental health, providing valuable insights into conditions such as postpartum depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and mood disorders. With over 200 scientific publications, she is one of the few neuroscientists globally recognized for integrating sex and gender considerations into research design.
Dr. Galea’s research extends to understanding how motherhood affects brain function, revealing that mothers often excel in multitasking and memory tasks. Her groundbreaking findings have highlighted the cognitive and neurological benefits associated with motherhood, challenging traditional perceptions and emphasizing the strengths of mothers in both personal and professional realms.
Beyond her scientific contributions, Dr. Galea is a fervent advocate for policy change and equity in health research. In 2024, she testified before the House of Commons HESA Standing Committee on Women’s Health, urging for increased national attention to women’s health research. She has also played a key role in shaping funding priorities at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), promoting greater investment in sex- and gender-informed research.
As the Director of the Women’s Health Research Cluster (WHRC), an international network of over 800 researchers, policymakers, and clinicians across 32 countries, Dr. Galea fosters collaboration and innovation in women’s health research. She is also the Scientific Lead for womenmind, a CAMH initiative that has secured millions in funding to support women in mental health research. Dr. Galea’s dedication to mentoring emerging scientists, many of whom are women or from underrepresented backgrounds, further underscores her commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders in her field.
Dr. Galea’s ability to drive scientific discovery, shape policy, and mentor emerging scholars has made her a trusted voice in international forums and a catalyst for change in women’s health and neuroscience. She has received numerous accolades, including the Vancouver YWCA Women of Distinction Award and the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research Award.
