Wesley Cole

Wesley Cole is a Health Science professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, serving as Research Associate Professor with the Matthew Gfeller Center in the Department of Exercise and Sport Science. He functions as a neuropsychologist for the Transforming Health and Resilience in Veterans (THRIVE) Program. Cole earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology from James Madison University in 2000, a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology in 2003, and a PhD in Clinical Psychology in 2006, all from the University of South Carolina. During his graduate studies, he completed pre- and postdoctoral training at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, an affiliate of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Cole joined UNC Chapel Hill in 2022 following 13 years at Womack Army Medical Center on Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), where he served as neuropsychologist, research lead, and chief of behavioral health services for the Intrepid Spirit Center. He holds certification as a Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS), is a member of the National Academy of Neuropsychology, and formerly chaired the Board of Directors for the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina. His primary research interests encompass cognitive assessment and outcomes following concussion, autonomic nervous system dysregulation after concussion, return-to-duty assessments for military warfighters, and innovative treatments for postconcussive symptoms. As Principal Investigator for multiple traumatic brain injury-related studies, Cole has authored or co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and frequently presents at conferences and professional meetings on brain injury topics. Recent contributions include serving as first author and co-investigator on a 2025 study challenging long-held beliefs about neurodegenerative disease risks in former NFL players based on position and career length.

Professional Email: wescole@unc.edu