Tommaso Barba

Tommaso Barba is a PhD candidate at the Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, working under the supervision of Dr. David Erritzoe and Prof. David Nutt. His research is centered on the brain effects of short-acting psychedelics, such as DMT and 5-MeO-DMT, and exploring the potential role of these substances in treating depression and enhancing well-being. Tommaso is the lead author of the first scientific paper investigating the effects of psychedelics on sexual functioning, recently published in Nature Scientific Reports, and has also authored significant studies comparing the effects of psilocybin with classic antidepressants. His interests extend to the impact of psychedelics and MDMA on romantic love and couples’ intimacy, where he believes these drugs may improve relational satisfaction. With a background in neuroscience and psychoanalysis, he graduated cum laude from Maastricht University. Tommaso is also deeply involved in science communication, actively engaging with the public through LinkedIn and X. In recognition of his efforts, he was awarded the Public Engagement Award in the Division of Psychiatry at Imperial College.