James Stellar

Dr. James R. Stellar is a professor of behavioral neuroscience at the University at Albany, SUNY, with over four decades of experience in academia. He began his career at the University of Pennsylvania, earning his PhD and completing a postdoctoral fellowship before joining Harvard University as an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology. He later transitioned into academic leadership, serving as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Northeastern University, Provost at Queens College, CUNY, and Provost and Interim President at the University at Albany. Dr. Stellar’s work focuses on the intersection of neuroscience, education, and experiential learning, emphasizing how hands-on experiences like internships prepare students for meaningful careers. He co-directs the Center for Neuroscience and Experiential Education (NEUROEXED), where he collaborates on research, writing, and mentoring students. Dr. Stellar has authored several books, including The Neurobiology of Motivation and Reward, Diversity at College, and Education That Works. His passion lies in helping students and educators integrate cognitive and emotional learning to develop what he calls “professional wisdom.”