Sheena Josselyn (photo courtesy of SickKids)
Sheena Josselyn honoured with Peter Seeburg Integrative Neuroscience Prize
Published: November 3, 2025
Sheena Josselyn, a senior scientist at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and U of T University Professor in the Faculty of Arts & Science's department of psychology and the Temerty Faculty of Medicine's department of physiology, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Peter Seeburg Integrative Neuroscience Prize.
The prize, presented by the Society for Neuroscience and the Schaller-Nikolich Foundation, honours scientists who successfully connect molecular and cellular events to brain circuits and systems to explain cognitive and behavioural processes.
Josselyn was honoured for her research into engrams, the physical representations of memories, which has profound implications for treatment of neurological conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder and Alzheimer’s disease.
“It’s a tremendous honour to be recognized and receive this prize, highlighting the importance of curiosity-driven research and the collective efforts of my colleagues and trainees," said Josselyn, who holds a Canada Research Chair in Memory Function and Dysfunction. "I hope our work on memory and engrams continues to open new doors for understanding the brain."
"Sheena Josselyn’s research into how the brain stores and reconstructs experiences has deepened our understanding of memory and its relevance to neurological and psychiatric disorders,” said Leah Cowen, U of T's vice-president, research and innovation, and strategic initiatives. “Her work exemplifies research that bridges fundamental discovery and real-world health challenges – and is a shining example of the spirit of collaboration and interdisciplinary inquiry that ties U of T and our partner hospitals. On behalf of the entire U of T community, I would like to congratulate Professor Josselyn on this most richly deserved honour.”
Stephen Scherer, chief of research at SickKids and University Professor of molecular genetics at Temerty Medicine, said the recognition "reflects not only [Josselyn's] role in defining engrams as a cornerstone of basic memory processes, but her sustained contributions to fundamental discoveries that promise to advance treatments for brain conditions."
