Hi, my name is Elina.

The AK stands for Alexandra Katariina.
Jacobs is my maiden name, which I’m continuing to use professionally.
My pronouns are she/her/hers.

I’m a systems neuroscientist, writer and yogi, looking to use my skills in a way to benefit others.
I’ve studied in Edinburgh, Sydney and London, and worked as a researcher at UCL and the Ryu Lab.
My academic publications, with free PDFs where possible, can be found here.
I’m currently working on my first book, and recently qualified as a 200hr Purna Yoga teacher, with my first ‘modern science meets age-old wisdom’ course lined up for summer 2025.

You can also find my full CV in PDF format if that’s what you’re after; I’ve got an academic (long) one, a writer’s one and a yoga one – cause let’s face it, you all want different skills from me.
You can find me on LinkedIn, GoogleScholar, GitHub, although I’m not very good at keeping those profiles uptodate. Once upon a time, I used to be on Twitter, but I refuse to engage with what it has become now.
Cause I love to read, you’ll find me most active on Goodreads. Please, I’d love more Goodreads friends.

I’m a triple citizen, speak seven languages, and have travelled to 50+ countries, often solo backpacking.
I’m also a synesthete, chronic migraineur, and have had a run into PTSD too.
I have a dog called Dali, and am an avid latin dancer when not stuck at home because of a pandemic or a migraine.

For the most part, I’ve lucked into a privileged life, which is why I like to volunteer and give back when I can.
I deeply believe that diversity is beneficial and that we can all learn from each other, and I seak to be an ally to the LGBTQ+, BIPOC & disability communities.

More content will be added as I build this website.