Honoring the Memory of Our Founder, Dr. Nolan Williams
Founder of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab | Visionary clinician-scientist, mentor, and leader
The Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab mourns the loss of our founder, Dr. Nolan Williams. Dr. Williams was a visionary scientist, clinician, mentor, and leader whose work helped shape the future of interventional psychiatry and therapeutic neuromodulation.
Through his leadership, the Brain Stimulation Lab became a place where rigorous science, clinical innovation, and deep compassion for patients came together. He believed that new treatments could be developed for people living with serious psychiatric and neurological conditions, and he dedicated his career to advancing that mission.
A Vision for Interventional Psychiatry
Dr. Williams’ work reflected an extraordinary commitment to improving the lives of patients and families. His scientific curiosity, creativity, and determination inspired those around him and helped move the field forward.
He challenged colleagues, trainees, and collaborators to think boldly, ask important questions, and pursue research with both precision and humanity.
His vision remains central to our mission: to advance the understanding and treatment of brain-based illness through thoughtful research, clinical excellence, and a commitment to those we serve.
Mentor, Colleague, and Community Builder
Beyond his scientific accomplishments, Dr. Williams will be remembered for the community he built. He was a mentor to many, a colleague to countless collaborators, and a driving force behind the lab’s culture of innovation, service, and hope.
Those who worked with him knew him not only as a brilliant scientist and clinician, but also as someone whose energy, generosity, and vision brought people together around a shared purpose.
Continuing His Legacy
The Brain Stimulation Lab continues its work in honor of Dr. Williams’ legacy. His commitment to patients, scientific discovery, and compassionate care remains at the heart of our mission.
We are deeply grateful for his leadership, his mentorship, and the lasting impact he made on our lab, our field, and the lives of many.
