Dr. Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse is a triple board-certified neurologist, sleep specialist, and epileptologist, and serves as Associate Professor of Neurology at the University of Pittsburgh. Her work bridges clinical neuroscience, human performance, and public health, with recognized expertise in cognitive performance neurology, which examines how the brain sustains focus, decision-making, and recovery under pressure.
Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse provides expert care for patients with epilepsy and sleep disorders, including those referred for surgical evaluation of medically refractory epilepsy. As Director of the Critical Care Continuous EEG Monitoring Service, she oversees continuous EEG across eight UPMC hospitals, facilitating timely neuroelectrophysiologic monitoring in critically ill patients. Her commitment to patient-centered care has earned her UPMC’s Excellence in Patient Experience Award and consistent recognition as a Pittsburgh Magazine Best Doctor (2019–2025).
Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse has completed multiple national and institutional leadership programs, including the AAN Women Leading in Neurology, the Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum, and UPMC’s Physician Leadership Essentials and Peer Coaching programs. She chairs the UPMC Neurology Wellness Committee and supports institutional initiatives focused on physician well-being and sustainable professional performance.
Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse is a graduate of the American Academy of Neurology’s Women Leading in Neurology (WLN) Program and the Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum (PALF), both competitive national leadership programs. At UPMC, she completed the Physician Leadership Essentials Program and the Peer Coaching Program, experiences that reflect her commitment to leadership development, mentorship, and advancing physician wellness.
Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse is a nationally recognized advocate for brain health, sleep health, and cognitive performance. She has testified before the Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee and collaborated with state legislators to introduce bills on later school start times, seizure first aid education in K–12 schools, and permanent standard time. She represents professional societies in both state and federal advocacy, working to advance science-driven policies that promote public safety, learning, and long-term neurological well-being. Her community outreach spans school districts, athletic organizations, first responders, and public transportation professionals, helping groups at every level understand how sleep, recovery, and cognitive readiness influence performance, learning, and safety. Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse also serves as the neurology consultant to the Pittsburgh Steelers, applying principles of neuroscience, recovery, cognitive resilience, and circadian sleep science within the world of professional sports.