Richard J. Davidson

Dr. Richard J. Davidson is the William James and Vilas Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry and Founder and Director of the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he has been a faculty member since 1984. He is also the Founder of Healthy Minds Innovations, which translates science into tools to cultivate and measure well-being.

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Davidson is best known for his groundbreaking work studying emotion and the brain. He is a highly sought-after expert and speaker, leading conversations on well-being on international stages such as the World Economic Forum, where he serves on the Global Council on Mental Health. Time Magazine named Davidson one of “The 100 Most Influential People in the World."

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His forthcoming book, Born to Flourish: How New Science and Ancient Wisdom Reveal a Simple Path to Thriving, will be released in March 2026. Co-authored with Cortland Dahl, the book teaches how to live a happy, fulfilling life. It shows that well-being is a skill that can be learned, and is easier than you think - just a small amount of practice makes a measurable difference. Additionally, flourishing is contagious.

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Dr. Davidson's prior books include the New York Times bestseller, The Emotional Life of Your Brain, and Altered Traits, co-authored with Daniel Goleman. He has also published hundreds of scientific papers, and is one of the most highly cited scientists in the world.

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He has been featured widely in popular media, including the Today Show, ABC’s Nightline, National Public Radio, National Geographic Magazine, Time Magazine, Newsweek, O: the Oprah Magazine, PBS’s The Charlie Rose Show, Harvard Business Review, and additional national and international news outlets.He received his Ph.D. from Harvard University in Psychology, Psychopathology & Psychophysiology with a minor focus in Behavioral Neurology and Neuroanatomy, and a B.S. in Psychology from New York University.