Clinical Advisor
Dr. Ben Rein, PhD
Neuroscientist and science communicator · Clinical Advisor at BetterBrain
Dr. Ben Rein is a neuroscientist, author, and science communicator whose work explores the biology of social connection, empathy, autism, and social behavior. He is Chief Science Officer of the Mind Science Foundation, an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University, and a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University at Buffalo. His first book, Why Brains Need Friends, was published in 2025.
Chief Science Officer, Mind Science Foundation
Adjunct Lecturer, Stanford University
Author of Why Brains Need Friends
Quick facts about Dr. Rein
Credentials and background at a glance
Full name
Ben Rein, PhD
Specialty
Social neuroscience and science communication
Book
Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection (2025)
Education
University at Buffalo (PhD, Neuroscience) · Stanford University (postdoctoral research)
Current role
Clinical Advisor, BetterBrain
Research focus
Social behavior, empathy, autism, and synaptic communication
Affiliations
Mind Science Foundation · Stanford University · University at Buffalo
Who is Dr. Ben Rein?
Dr. Ben Rein is a neuroscientist, author, and science communicator whose work examines how the brain enables social behavior and why human connection matters for health and well-being. His research has addressed the neurobiology of empathy, genetic mechanisms associated with autism, synaptic communication, social experience, and the ways digital environments affect human interaction. He completed his PhD in neuroscience at the University at Buffalo in the laboratory of Dr. Zhen Yan and later conducted postdoctoral research at Stanford University in the laboratory of Dr. Robert Malenka. He has published more than 20 peer-reviewed papers and has received recognition from organizations including the National Institutes of Health, the Society for Neuroscience, and Sigma Xi.
Outside the laboratory, Ben is known for making neuroscience accessible to broad audiences and for directly addressing misleading or oversimplified science online. His debut book, Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection, was published by Avery/Penguin Random House in October 2025 and has been released internationally.
What does Dr. Rein do at BetterBrain?
At BetterBrain, Dr. Rein advises on the science behind BetterBrain’s prevention programs, including the biomarkers and cognitive assessments BetterBrain tests and how the brain health program works end to end. He brings expertise in social neuroscience, public education, and the responsible communication of brain-health research.
Areas of expertise
Social neuroscience and human connection
Empathy and prosocial behavior
Autism and synaptic mechanisms
Loneliness, relationships, and brain health
Science communication and misinformation
Public engagement with neuroscience
Frequently asked questions
Are Alzheimer's disease and other dementias preventable?
While there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, the science around prevention has progressed tremendously over the past few years, as detailed in our Science section. A landmark study suggested that ~40% of cases are preventable, but many experts believe this might be closer to 60% given they did not consider important factors such as sleep, hyperhomocysteinemia, among others. What's more, implementing these brain health strategies has clear short term cognitive benefits (25% improvement per the landmark FINGER study) and improves many other aspects of your health.
What are some things I can do to reduce my risk of developing dementia?
While it may not be satisfying, the reality is that "it depends". There are 100+ potential interventions, but to find the 3-5 most effective ones it is critical to understand your biology — hence why BetterBrain does extensive blood biomarker testing among other assessments.
How do you keep my health information safe?
We know your health data is some of your most valuable information. That's why we hold a high bar for data privacy and security, and composed a team of experienced leaders who have built secure data systems in the past:
- One of our co-founders built a secure healthcare platform containing data from over 140M Americans and 7 of the largest health systems in the country
- Our chief engineer built the data infrastructure that housed 15% of all COVID test results in the US, including for members of congress and the Department of Defense. Through his work with electronic health record companies, he ensured the security of ~10% of the US population's healthcare data.
All of BetterBrain's staff are trained on HIPAA regulations, and we use these experts' technical knowledge to constantly enhance our digital, physical, and administrative security measures.
Please refer our privacy notice for more information.
Is BetterBrain right for me?
BetterBrain was designed for anyone interested in improving their brain health — both reducing dementia risk and improving cognitive function. We find that people who benefit the most typically have (1) a family history of dementia / Alzheimer's, OR (2) 1 or 2 copies of the APOE4 gene, OR (3) have been experiencing some level of cognitive decline they would like to address.
I already have my own doctor, how does BetterBrain fit in?
BetterBrain aims to integrate seamlessly into your existing care and help you navigate the broader healthcare system. We do not intend to replace the work of your physician and believe it is important for all to maintain a relationship with a primary care doctor and/or a neurologist.
Does BetterBrain diagnose Alzheimer's or other dementias?
Although BetterBrain can help you unlock a wealth of data about your health and biology, we do not diagnose any conditions. In other words, BetterBrain is not a substitute to medical care. Instead, we encourage to you use the information you learn through BetterBrain to have a thoughtful discussion with your physician to receive any diagnoses and come up with a clinical path forward.
I get lab tests every year at my annual physical. How is this different?
BetterBrain's battery of tests is completely different than what primary care physicians typically order. Our panel has been carefully assembled and vetted by leading physicians to provide a comprehensive view of your brain health. Unfortunately, many of these tests are inaccessible to most people given doctors are typically less focused on long term prevention, and require "medical necessity" for insurance coverage which usually requires existing symptoms.
What tests do you perform?
One of the first steps in your BetterBrain journey is to get a series of tests to help you identify your brain health risks. The tests included in your membership fall under two categories.
Cognitive assessments
Our battery of cognitive tests is designed to give you quick insights on different types of brain abilities - memory, reasoning, concentration, and verbal abilities. These tests have been designed based off 30+ years of research an are used by over 10,000 providers around the world. You can read more about our cognitive testing on our testing partner's website.
Blood tests
Our panel of cross-specialty physicians assembled a set of 54 biomarkers that are the most important to understand for your brain health. We test all of these markers in your initial blood panel, and you can ask us any time about re-testing.
Cognitive assessments
Our battery of cognitive tests is designed to give you quick insights on different types of brain abilities - memory, reasoning, concentration, and verbal abilities. These tests have been designed based off 30+ years of research an are used by over 10,000 providers around the world. You can read more about our cognitive testing on our testing partner's website.
Blood tests
Our panel of cross-specialty physicians assembled a set of 54 biomarkers that are the most important to understand for your brain health. We test all of these markers in your initial blood panel, and you can ask us any time about re-testing.
- Albumin
- Albumin : globulin ratio
- Alkaline phosphate
- Apolipoprotein B
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
- Baso (Absolute)
- Basos
- Bilirubin
- BUN
- BUN : creatinine ratio
- Calcium
- Carbon dioxide
- Chloride
- Creatinine
- eGFR
- Eosinophils (Absolute)
- Eosinophils
- Ferritin
- Folate (Folic Acid)
- Globulin
- Glucose
- HDL cholesterol
- Hematocrit
- Hemoglobin
- Hemoglobin A1c
- hs-CRP
- Homocysteine
- Immature Granulocytes
- Immature Grans (Abs)
- Insulin
- LDL cholesterol
- Lipoprotein (a)
- Lymphocytes
- Lymphocytes (Absolute)
- MCH
- MCHC
- MCV
- Monocytes
- Monocytes (Absolute)
- Neutrophils
- Neutrophils (Absolute)
- Platelets
- Potassium
- RBC
- RDW
- Serum protein
- Sodium
- Triglycerides
- TSH
- Uric acid
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D 25-OH
- WBC
- Albumin
- Albumin : globulin ratio
- Alkaline phosphate
- Apolipoprotein B
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
- Baso (Absolute)
- Basos
- Bilirubin
- BUN
- BUN : creatinine ratio
- Calcium
- Carbon dioxide
- Chloride
- Creatinine
- EGF
- Eosinophils (Absolute)
- Eosinophils
- Ferritin
- Folate (Folic Acid)
- Globulin
- Glucose
- HDL cholesterol
- Hematocrit
- Hemoglobin
- Hemoglobin A1c
- hs-CRP
- Homocysteine
- Immature Granulocytes
- Immature Grans (Abs)
- Insulin
- LDL cholesterol
- Lipoprotein (a)
- Lymphocytes
- Lymphocytes (Absolute)
- MCH
- MCHC
- MCV
- Monocytes
- Monocytes (Absolute)
- Neutrophils
- Neutrophils (Absolute)
- Platelets
- Potassium
- RBC
- RDW
- Serum protein
- Sodium
- Triglycerides
- TSH
- Uric acid
- VLDL cholesterol
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D 25-OH
- WBC
Although there are many more tests you can do that are relevant to your brain health, they are often more expensive and more targeted. BetterBrain can help you access deeper testing at a discounted fee.
Please note that pTau-217 and APOE genetic testing are not currently available in NY, NJ or RI.
Please note that pTau-217 and APOE genetic testing are not currently available in NY, NJ or RI.
How soon after joining can I get tested?
Typically within a few days. As soon as you're signed up, you can schedule your blood draw at any of 5,000+ Quest locations nationwide (or BioReference labs in NY, NJ, RI). We also offer at-home blood draws in most urban areas for an additional $50. You can complete your cognitive assessment and health profile immediately after signing up.
How long after testing will I get my results?
Your bloodwork will typically be available within a week of your blood draw. Once ready, you will recieve an email to view your results directly on our platform.
Who will have access to my results?
We restrict access to results on a need-to-know basis. Namely, your results are available only to you, the ordering physician (who will contact you directly for any critical results), and your brain health expert if you are receiving coaching. Besides that, nobody has access to your health data.
Can I delete my data?
Yes you can. BetterBrain exists to help you identify and understand your health data. We know that this is some of the most important information you have, and it is 100% yours - and nobody else's.
You can delete your data anytime you like by sending us an email at contact@betterbrain.com. Please know that we delete your data permanently. Once it's gone, we will not be able to get it back if you change your mind.
You can delete your data anytime you like by sending us an email at contact@betterbrain.com. Please know that we delete your data permanently. Once it's gone, we will not be able to get it back if you change your mind.
Will a clinician be reviewing my results?
Yes, a medical doctor will review results from your lab tests and call you directly if there are any critical values in your results. Additionally, your results will be visible directly in our app and discussed with your health coach.
Who are the BetterBrain health coaches?
For Blueprint: Your brain health coach is a registered nurse experienced in neurology and brain health. They provide personalized education and support during your up-to 90-minute consultation and are available for ongoing text support. Our coaches are trained on the latest brain health research and work alongside our medical advisors to discuss your results and create personalized protocols.
For the Coaching Program: You will meet with a dedicated brain health dietitian trained in cutting-edge brain science. They provide ongoing one-on-one support throughout your 3-month program with regular sessions (weekly or as needed). Our coaches combine clinical expertise with empathy and passion to help you overcome obstacles and reach your goals. They focus on sustainable lifestyle changes across nutrition, sleep, stress management, and other key areas that impact brain health.
All BetterBrain coaches:
Are licensed healthcare professionals (RNs or RDs)
Receive specialized training in brain health and dementia prevention
Work under the guidance of our medical advisory board
Have access to the latest research in preventive neurology
Are committed to evidence-based, personalized approaches to brain health optimization
For the Coaching Program: You will meet with a dedicated brain health dietitian trained in cutting-edge brain science. They provide ongoing one-on-one support throughout your 3-month program with regular sessions (weekly or as needed). Our coaches combine clinical expertise with empathy and passion to help you overcome obstacles and reach your goals. They focus on sustainable lifestyle changes across nutrition, sleep, stress management, and other key areas that impact brain health.
All BetterBrain coaches:
Are licensed healthcare professionals (RNs or RDs)
Receive specialized training in brain health and dementia prevention
Work under the guidance of our medical advisory board
Have access to the latest research in preventive neurology
Are committed to evidence-based, personalized approaches to brain health optimization
What time commitment does BetterBrain require?
Blueprint: Our entire assessment process typically takes under an hour (~15 min for at-home blood test (longer if you are going to a local lab), <15 min for cognitive assessment, and <10 min for the health profile). However, the real work starts post-assessment. While many interventions are quick and easy (e.g., new supplement routine), others may require more effort (e.g., optimizing sleep). That said, we work hard to ensure you find things that are enjoyable and beneficial to many other aspects of your life.
Coaching Program: The initial assessment takes under an hour, plus regular coaching sessions (weekly or as needed) for 12 weeks. Sessions focus on sustainable lifestyle changes with your dedicated brain health coach. The program is designed to fit into your life with practical, achievable steps toward long-term brain health improvement.
Coaching Program: The initial assessment takes under an hour, plus regular coaching sessions (weekly or as needed) for 12 weeks. Sessions focus on sustainable lifestyle changes with your dedicated brain health coach. The program is designed to fit into your life with practical, achievable steps toward long-term brain health improvement.
How does BetterBrain's money-back guarantee work?
We firmly believe in the effectiveness of our approach, so much so that we're prepared to stake our own resources on it. We will issue a 100% refund if you are unsatisfied for any reason; we just ask that you share which aspects you were unsatisfied with.
Is BetterBrain covered by insurance?
BetterBrain Coaching Program is eligible for insurance coverage. For 92% of approved clients, this program costs $0 with insurance. We can help you check your coverage to see if you qualify.
BetterBrain Blueprint is $89 with insurance coverage. The $89 covers the biomarker panel, which is not included in your insurance benefit. Without insurance, Blueprint is $399. Blueprint is also HSA and FSA eligible for tax savings.
BetterBrain Blueprint is $89 with insurance coverage. The $89 covers the biomarker panel, which is not included in your insurance benefit. Without insurance, Blueprint is $399. Blueprint is also HSA and FSA eligible for tax savings.
Do I need a referral to join BetterBrain?
No. BetterBrain is right for anyone looking to improve their brain health and brain performance. The sooner you set a baseline understanding for your body, the easier it will be to see your health trends and take action.
Where is BetterBrain available?
BetterBrain is available in all 50 states, with the exception of certain zip codes. Additionally, you can optionally choose at-home testing in select zip codes in 27 states and the District of Columbia.
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Delaware
- DC
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- New Hampshire
- Nevada
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
Other questions? Feel free to contact us