Dr. Simon Ruffell is trained in Western medicine (as a psychiatrist), research psychology (with a PhD on ayahuasca and mental health), and traditional plant medicine (as an apprentice in Shipibo healing).

He is the founder of Onaya Science, a non-profit organization researching the effects of ayahuasca in native Amazonian contexts, and CEO of Onaya, an initiative providing education and training based on Indigenous knowledge and scientific approaches. These projects are conducted in collaboration with traditional healers, Indigenous collectives, universities, and social organizations worldwide.

Simon is also a Lecturer in Psychology and Psychedelics at the University of Exeter and Medical Director of MINDS (Multidisciplinary Investigation into Novel Discoveries & Solutions), a non-profit organization exploring the role of psychedelics and consciousness practices in addressing humanity’s major challenges.

His work focuses on understanding traditional Indigenous medicines, such as ayahuasca, from both Indigenous and Western scientific perspectives, promoting an integrative and relational approach.