NEW in Toronto: Social Status, the Brain and the Body

Brains and Barstools brings captivating professors to bars in Canada for vivid lectures that spark curiosity and connection over drinks. On November 18th, we present : "Social Status, the Brain and the Body" by Prof. Melissa Holmes, PhD. We all know that social status matters - but what happens when your place in the hierarchy starts changing your brain and your body? From primates to humans, animals living in groups tend to form social hierarchies. But these hierarchies aren’t simply about who is “on top.” Social rank can shape health, wellbeing, reproduction, and even the way the brain functions. In this lecture, Dr. Melissa Holmes explores the biology of social status, asking why hierarchies are so widespread across the animal kingdom and what they actually do to us. Drawing on research and expirements across diverse species, including humans and animals, she’ll examine how the brain helps establish and maintain social rank - and what happens inside the brain and body when someone has the opportunity to move up or down the hierarchy. From competition and dominance to stress, physiology, and social behaviour, this lecture offers a fascinating look at the biological machinery behind something we usually think of as purely social. Join us for an evening exploring the surprisingly biological side of status, hierarchy, and social life. 💡 About the wonderful Professor Melissa Holmes Dr. Melissa Holmes is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Her research examines the biological mechanisms underlying social behaviour, with a particular focus on how social experiences and status influence the brain, hormones, and behaviour. Her work draws on research across animal species to better understand the biological foundations of social hierarchies and their consequences for individuals. 📅 Date: November 18, 2026 🕡 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM 📍 Location: Civil Works 🎤 Speaker: Professor Melissa Holmes, PhD. 🎟 Seats are limited!