Meet Paul Perrin: Professor of Data Science and Psychology
Dr. Paul Perrin is a Professor of Data Science and Psychology at the University of Virginia. He is a faculty member in both the Data Science and Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programs.
In this Q&A, we speak with Dr. Perrin about his research at the intersection of data science, artificial intelligence, and clinical health psychology. His primary professional goal is to use data science to bring evidence-based behavioral medicine and mental health services to individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions, particularly in minority populations in the U.S. and in underserved global regions.
Brain Institute: Briefly describe your current research projects and interests.
My research sits at the intersection of data science, artificial intelligence, and clinical health psychology. I develop predictive models, digital health tools, and psychometrically sound assessments to improve outcomes for individuals with neurological conditions, particularly traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury. Much of my work uses large-scale longitudinal datasets and focuses on both recovery trajectories and the social determinants that shape them. I’m especially interested in translating these insights into interventions that are scalable and clinically useful.
How does your research connect with the field of neuroscience?
My work is grounded in understanding how neurological conditions affect cognition, behavior, and mental health over time. I study recovery and adaptation following brain injury, often integrating neuropsychological, behavioral, and environmental data to model long-term outcomes. Increasingly, I’m also using AI methods to better capture complex patterns in brain-behavior relationships and to improve assessment and intervention tools.
Why did you decide to come to UVA?
UVA offered a unique opportunity to bridge data science and psychology in a way that aligns closely with my research program. The collaborative environment, especially across the School of Data Science, Medicine, and neuroscience-related fields, made it an ideal place to build interdisciplinary work. It’s also a place where both methodological innovation and real-world impact are genuinely valued.
What’s the best part about your job?
Working with students and trainees is the most rewarding part of my job. I enjoy mentoring them as they develop their own ideas and seeing them apply quantitative tools to meaningful, real-world problems. It’s especially fulfilling when that work has the potential to improve people’s lives.
What led you to a career in science and neuroscience?
I came to this work through clinical training, where I saw firsthand how neurological conditions can reshape people’s lives and identities. That experience sparked a deeper interest in understanding recovery and resilience from both psychological and biological perspectives. Over time, I became increasingly drawn to using data-driven approaches to answer those questions at scale.
What advice do you have for trainees?
Stay curious, and don’t be afraid to cross disciplinary boundaries. Some of the most interesting and impactful work happens at the intersection of fields. Also, focus on asking meaningful questions—methods can always be learned, but good questions are what drive strong science.
What’s something new that you’ve learned recently (at work or outside of work)?
Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about how AI can be used not just to analyze data, but to help generate better measurement tools and interventions. It’s pushed me to rethink parts of the research process I used to take for granted. Outside of work, I’m constantly learning from my kids, who have a way of making you see the world a little differently every day.
Where are you from originally?
I’m originally from California and then grew up in Florida, where I completed my undergraduate and graduate training at the University of Florida before beginning my faculty career.
What’s your favorite way to spend a day off?
Spending time with my family is at the top of the list—usually something outdoors or just relaxing together. I also enjoy reading and finding ways to unplug a bit from work.
What is a surefire way to make you laugh?
A well-timed, dry comment or anything unexpectedly clever usually does it. Kids also have a way of saying things that are unintentionally hilarious.