
Sherif Karama, MD PhD FRCPC
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University
- Affiliated faculty member, McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute
- Clinical Psychiatrist, Douglas Mental Health University Institute
- Principal Investigator, Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics & Mental Health
Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 boulevard, LaSalle, Montréal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada
Telephone: +1 514 761 6131 Ext. 3356
E-mail: info@LudmerCentre.ca
Area of Research
Dr Karama is a clinical psychiatrist and neuroscientist whose research combines neuroimaging, genetics and psychiatry to map the relationship between brain parameters and cognitive ability, specifically intelligence, across the life spectrum. His research has already advanced understanding of the link between a relatively thick cortex—the outer layer of the brain where critical cognitive functions (e.g., language and perception) occur—and higher cognitive capacity and healthy aging. His research has already identified that:
• Childhood intelligence, as measured by IQ, is a key determinant of an individual’s cognitive ability in their 70s, seven decades later.
• Elderly individuals with a thicker cortex have a greater chance of remaining cognitively sharp.
• Environmental factors, such as long-term smoking, could cause cortical thinning.
Dr Karama’s ongoing research seeks to identify and understand the genetic underpinnings and environmental factors that might favour brain development. His research aims to inform and advance therapeutic interventions to improve and maintain cognitive abilities in relation to ageing, impaired cognition in neurological and psychiatric diseases from Alzheimer’s to schizophrenia, and learning disabilities such as dyslexia and ADHD. This research will help to unlock new insights in cognitive development and identify pivotal intervention periods, from childhood through to old age.
Videos
IQ and the brain across our lifespan, 2018
Neurobiology of human intelligence, 2016
Publications & Impact Profile
• Read/download his full biographical sketch
• Visit his Google Scholar page for a list of publications
• Visit his Research Gate for ongoing research.
• Read our articles about his latest publications
• Subscribe to one of the Ludmer Centre’s social media sites for updates on his work.
Interviews and speaking engagements for Ludmer Centre researchers can be organised through the Ludmer Centre’s Administrative Director at info@LudmerCentre.ca or +1-514-265-3408.