AL NAJJAR Reem

PhD Student

INRIA

reem.al-najjar [at] inria.fr

Short bio

  • BSc in Biology from the Lebanese American University 2017-2020
  • MSc in Neuroscience from the American University of Beirut 2020-2022
  • MSc in Learning Sciences from Université Paris Cité – Learning Planet Institute 2022-2024

Thesis Title

Investigating the Neural and Behavioral Mechanisms of Social Interaction to Better Understand Collaboration Among Peers.

Short Abstract

My research project investigates the neural and behavioral mechanisms underlying peer collaboration in middle childhood, focusing on inter-brain synchrony (IBS) as a key marker of effective social interaction. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) hyperscanning, we examine how IBS correlates with conversational behaviors and rapport-building during real-world collaborative tasks. Findings will inform the development of AI-driven virtual peers to enhance educational outcomes by fostering productive collaboration and social bonding among children.