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We live at a time of rapid advances in our understanding of the neurocognitive foundations of perception, thought and action, and how these mental processes allow the individual to make sense of the world around them (and their place in it). This understanding of the human mind and consciousness benefits from progress in two often unconnected frameworks: 1) a rapidly expanding understanding of critical gene-brain-environmental relationships and cognitive development from within the broad disciplines of neuroscience, and 2) a re-discovery of older ethical, spiritual, contemplative and meditational practices that transform thinking and motivation in ways that have profound impact on brain function and which can engender cognitive, emotional and spiritual well-being. In his remarks, Dr. Pugh will focus on the unique promise (and some challenges) associated with bringing these ancient and modern perspectives together in a synergistic manner.

Dr. Kenneth Pugh is the President and Director of Research at Haskins Laboratories, a Yale University and University of Connecticut affiliated inter-disciplinary institute, dedicated to the investigation of the biological bases of language. In 2017, Dr. Pugh received a National Institutes of Health (NIH) MERIT Award from the National Child Health and Human Development Council. Before his academic career began, Dr. Pugh completed seven years of training as a Jain monastic with Gurudev Chitrabhanu. This early immersion in meditation practices and in the formal study of Jain philosophy helped to shape his approach to questions on neuroscience and meditation.