Research

Stephanie Balters, PhD is a neuroscientist, educator, and innovator pioneering the neuroscience of collective thriving. Her work demonstrates how deep connection, trust, and shared purpose can drive measurable gains in team performance and wellbeing.

As the Director of Research at CCARE and Director of the Empowerment Neuroscience Lab in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, she uses portable dual-brain neuroimaging to advance understanding of the neurobiology of real-world human interaction. Her research identifies the neural mechanisms through which compassion, trust, and collaboration emerge—demonstrating that collective thriving is not just an ideal to aspire to, but a high-return investment in human potential.

Dr. Balters develops and rigorously tests neuroscience-informed interventions that translate empirical insight into organizational outcomes. Through living laboratories across Stanford Medicine, the Graduate School of Business, and Stanford Athletics, she applies her findings to cultivate compassion, connection, and collective excellence.

With background training in mechanical engineering, computer science, human-centered design, and clinical neuroimaging, she spans disciplines to build tools, teams, and cultures where compassion functions as a scalable driver of excellence. Her mission is to unite scientists, educators, clinicians, and organizational leaders across institutions to launch a global hub advancing the science and implementation of compassion—turning scientific insight into real-world impact for a more connected, thriving society.

For collaborations or questions, please contact balters@stanford.edu.