Jennifer J. Heisz, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at McMaster University, where she directs the NeuroFit Lab (www.neurofitlab.ca). Her research investigates the mechanisms through which physical activity and other lifestyle interventions influence brain function, cognition, and mental health. Her work focuses on diverse lived experiences, including those of young and older adults, neurodivergent individuals, and people living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Heisz received her Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience from McMaster University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Brain Health at the Rotman Research Institute in Toronto. She has been recognized with numerous honors for her contributions to the field, including the Ontario Government’s Early Researcher Award, the Petro-Canada Young Innovator Award, the McMaster University Scholar designation, and a Canada Research Chair in Brain Health and Aging.
She serves as Director of the McMaster Physical Activity Centre of Excellence (https://pace.mcmaster.ca) and as Editor-in-Chief of Exercise, Sport, and Movement (, an international, peer-reviewed open-access journal of the American College of Sports Medicine.
Dr. Heisz is also the author of Move the Body, Heal the Mind, a popular science book that synthesizes current research on the cognitive and mental health benefits of exercise. The book has been translated into multiple languages, reaching a broad international readership.
