Dr Sarah McKay

Dr Sarah McKay is a neuroscientist and science communicator who specialises in translating brain science research into simple, actionable strategies for peak performance, creativity, women's health and wellbeing. Her previous book, The Women's Brain Book: The Neuroscience of Health, Hormones and Happiness, explores the female lifespan through the lens of neurobiology.

Sarah grew up in New Zealand and completed her undergraduate degree in neuroscience at Otago University before heading to Oxford University for her MSc and PhD training. She sums up her doctoral thesis with the words, 'Nature, Nurture or Neuroplasticity'. Moving again, this time to Sydney, Australia, she completed five years of postdoctoral research in brain plasticity and spinal injury research before hanging up her lab coat to pursue a career in science communications. Sarah is the director of Think Brain, which offers a suite of professional development training programs in applied neuroscience and brain health.

Sarah has been published extensively for public, academic and professional audiences. She's been quoted in the Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Body & Soul. And she can be seen and heard 'explaining the brain' on SBS's Insight, ABC Radio National, Mamamia, NZ Radio National, ABC's Catalyst, and on stage at Business Chicks, Canberra Writers' Festival and Happiness & Its Causes.

Sarah and her Irish husband have settled on Sydney's Northern Beaches, where they are bringing up two surfer dudes and a cocker spaniel. Typically you'll find them in the ocean, either sailing, snorkelling or swimming.