Behavioural Engineering: Blueprint of Leadership and the science of habit formation

This KAUST LEADs workshop introduces the principles of Behavioral Engineering to help us design sustainable habits and healthier lifestyles. Moving beyond willpower, the session explores how environment design, habit loops, and self-leadership strategies can reduce mental friction and support long-term well-being. The Motivation for Change, delivered in collaboration with Student Counseling Services, focuses on the psychological levers that support lasting behavioral change, offering practical insight into how mindset, motivation, and emotional readiness influence the pursuit of healthy goals.

*Iftar will be provided

Learn more about the instructors: 

Thiago Virginio, KAUST LEADs
MS student in Chemical Engineering at KAUST, Thiago serves as Program Lead within KAUST LEADs. He has a strong interest in translating behavioral science into practical strategies for habit formation and self-leadership

Dr. Anjum, Student Counseling Services

Dr. Anjum joined Student Counseling Services (SCS) at KAUST in April 2023. He is a Clinical Psychologist and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, licensed in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. He holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Manchester and has worked in clinical and academic settings since 2007. With experience across the UK and KSA, Dr. Anjum specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, brief psychodynamic psychotherapy, and counseling. His work focuses on psychological wellbeing, anxiety and depression, student adjustment, and reducing mental health stigma. He has also published research on generalized anxiety disorder and depression in adult student populations.

Dr. Devdutt,  Student Counseling Services

Dr. Devdutt joined Student Counseling Services (SCS) at KAUST in July 2021. She is a Clinical Psychologist licensed by the Rehabilitation Council of India, with over a decade of experience in mental health. She holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology from NIMHANS, Bengaluru, and completed her earlier training at the University of Delhi. Dr. Devdutt has extensive clinical, academic, and research experience and is trained in psychological assessment and evidence-based therapies. She integrates cognitive-behavioral, positive psychology, and acceptance-based approaches to support wellbeing, resilience, and personal growth. Alongside individual counseling, she actively promotes mental health through workshops, outreach initiatives, and resilience-building programs within the KAUST community. 

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