Research Bio

Ronald Dahl is a developmental scientist and pediatrician whose research focuses on the neurobiological and emotional bases of adolescent development. He studies how brain maturation, sleep, and affective systems interact to shape health, motivation, and risk behavior. Dahl’s interdisciplinary work integrates neuroscience, medicine, and public health to understand both the vulnerabilities and opportunities of adolescence. His research informs interventions that promote well-being and resilience in youth. 

He is Professor of Public Health and Community Health Sciences at UC Berkeley and Founding Director of the Center for the Developing Adolescent. He served for 12 years as Director, Institute of Human Development, and previously served as president of the Society for Research on Child Development; he mentors students and practitioners in adolescent health and developmental science.

Research Expertise and Interest

adolescence, brain development, behavioral and emotional health, pubertal maturation, affective neuroscience, social neuroscience