Healthy Minds and Bodies: The Science of Psychoneuroimmunology

About this course

The mind-body connection and its influence on mental as well as somatic health is at center stage in this course, focusing on the field of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI). PNI is an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, and immunology, exploring the intricate connections between the mind, the brain, and the immune system.

This course delves into how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors impact immune function and, conversely, how the immune system influences mental processes and behavior. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the bidirectional communication pathways between the brain and the immune system, from the molecular and cellular levels to complex psychosocial interactions.

By examining cutting-edge research and clinical applications, we will explore the role of PNI in health and disease, including its implications for understanding and treating conditions such as autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, infectious diseases, and mental health disorders. Furthermore, the course will critically evaluate the impact of lifestyle factors, stress, and psychosocial interventions on immune function and overall well-being, paving the way for future advancements in both research and clinical practice.

Pre-requisites

One course in psychology or neuroscience at university level.

Faculty

Ebba Karlsson

Faculty

M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology (Stockholm University, 2015), B.A. in Philosophy (Stockholm University, 2013). Visiting student in Politics and Public Policy at New York University, and research internship at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge University. Founder of Poplar, a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving political civility in society. Also working as an organisational consultant, focusing on leadership development, stress resilience, and wellbeing. With DIS since 2016.