About Dr. Zola
Dr. Stuart Zola is a PhD neuroscientist and Professor Emeritus at Emory University whose research has been at the forefront of understanding how memory is organized in the brain.
His work helped identify the neural systems critical for memory function—insights that continue to influence both neuroscience and applied cognitive health today.
Today, Dr. Zola focuses on the practical application of his life’s work: helping people make better decisions. As an Official ThinkBuzan Licensed Instructor, he equips educators and students with "gold-standard" visual tools to evaluate options and shape their future with confidence.
Leadership & Academic Career
Over a career defined by scientific discovery and institutional mentorship, Dr. Zola has held numerous leadership roles:
Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Interim Provost & Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Emory University
Director, Yerkes National Primate Research Center at Emory University
Director, Graduate Neuroscience Program, UC San Diego
Senior Research Career Scientist, Atlanta VA Medical Center
Founder, Quiet Developments, LLC – a leadership consulting and workshop company
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Dr. Zola translates research into technology ventures that improve quality of life:
Co-Founder, Neurotrack – Advancing early detection of cognitive decline.
Co-Founder & CSO, MapHabit – Supporting independence for those with cognitive challenges.
Member, Georgia Creative Economy Collective (CEC) – Bridging arts and technology to drive economic growth in Georgia.
Educator, Mentor & Communicator
As an Entreprenuer in Residence at The Hatchery (Emory), Dr. Zola guides student entrepreneurs. He is a graduate of the Mikki Williams Speakers School, bringing Hall of Fame-caliber storytelling to the stage. His keynotes are known for blending rigorous science with humor and sleight-of-hand magic to keep audiences spellbound.
Stuart in the News
Emory University: From neuroscience to innovation: Celebrating Stuart Zola’s journey at Emory
Georgia Research Alliance: No. 20: A five-minute test that predicts cognitive decline