Monica Coenraads

Executive Director
Rett Syndrome Research Trust

Monica Coenraads’ involvement with Rett syndrome began the day her then-2-year-old daughter was diagnosed with the disorder. A year later, in 1999, she co-founded the Rett Syndrome Research Foundation (RSRF) and held the position of scientific director during the eight years of the foundation’s drive to stimulate scientific interest and research in Rett syndrome. This culminated in the groundbreaking work in 2007 that demonstrated the first global reversal of symptoms in preclinical models of the disorder. Coenraads co-founded the Rett Syndrome Research Trust (RSRT) in late 2007 to pursue the next steps from that milestone. Under her leadership at RSRF and RSRT, $36 million has been raised for research. In 2010 she co-founded the Rett Syndrome Research Trust UK, now called Reverse Rett, and currently serves as a trustee.

Explore more from The Transmitter

Alex Maier argues that a scientific explanation of consciousness requires grounding in formalized mathematics

When it comes to discovering laws of nature for consciousness similar to those in physics, Maier argues that integrated information theory is the only game in town.

By Paul Middlebrooks
7 January 2026 | 1 min read

Neuro’s ark: How goats can model neurodegeneration

Since debunking an urban legend that headbutting animals don’t damage their brain, Nicole Ackermans has been investigating how the behavior correlates with neurodegeneration.

By Calli McMurray
7 January 2026 | 6 min read
Research images of the mouse visual cortex.

Astrocytes stabilize circuits in adult mouse brain

The glial cells secrete a protein that suppresses plasticity post-development.

By Holly Barker
6 January 2026 | 5 min read

privacy consent banner

Privacy Preference

We use cookies to provide you with the best online experience. By clicking “Accept All,” you help us understand how our site is used and enhance its performance. You can change your choice at any time. To learn more, please visit our Privacy Policy.