Duke Researcher Received MacArthur Fellowship

The foundation awarded a $800,000 stipend to the North Carolina scientist for his work on memory.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Social Sciences

Isometric editorial illustration of a complex lattice of abstract synaptic pathways and interconnected geometric nodes in shades of teal and oxblood. — The MacArthur Foundation awarded Duke University researcher Felipe De Brigard an $800,000 fellowship to support his ongoing studies into memory and forgiveness. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The MacArthur Foundation named Duke University researcher Felipe De Brigard to its 2026 class of fellows. The 47-year-old native of Colombia was awarded an $800,000 stipend to continue his studies on memory and forgiveness.

Why it matters

De Brigard’s work, which includes studying individuals affected by political violence, demonstrates that the act of forgiving can reduce the emotional intensity of negative memories. The fellowship provides the necessary support for him to further investigate these neurological and psychological processes.

The fellowship includes a $800,000 stipend awarded to each of the 20 selected recipients. The study utilizes lab research and field data gathered from populations affected by political violence.

The players

Felipe De Brigard

He is a 47-year-old researcher at Duke University who studies the relationship between human memory and forgiveness.

MacArthur Foundation

This organization awards prestigious fellowships to individuals who show exceptional creativity and potential in their work.

The details

De Brigard, who holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill, conducts his research at Duke University. His lab explores how cognitive processes, specifically forgiveness, interact with the way people retain and process distressing memories.

The MacArthur Foundation announced its 2026 class of fellows on September 29, 2026.

The Big Picture

By prioritizing studies on memory and cognitive psychology, the MacArthur Foundation Fellowship program continues to shape the trajectory of social science research. This recognition marks a departure from purely clinical focus, bridging the gap between neurological data and human lived experience.

The continuation of this research could eventually lead to new therapeutic strategies for those struggling with trauma or memory-related issues. By better understanding how forgiveness impacts the brain, the medical community may develop more effective mental health interventions.

The takeaway

This award highlights the growing academic interest in the biological mechanisms behind emotional processing. It underscores the potential for rigorous social science to provide actionable insights into the human capacity for resilience.