Mariam El‑Sharif, PhD

Dr. Mariam El‑Sharif is a leading international expert in sensuality, passion, and intimate relationship dynamics, with over 12 years of research and applied experience. She specializes in helping individuals and couples explore healthy sexual expression and deepen emotional and physical intimacy. Mariam combines rigorous scientific research with practical interventions and workshops, empowering people to embrace pleasure, desire, and authentic connection.

Specialization

Human Sensuality & Erotic Psychology
Passion Dynamics in Relationships
Sexual Empowerment & Desire Mapping
Intimacy Coaching and Counseling
Relationship Therapy & Sexual Health Integration

Education

2006–2010: BSc in Psychology, American University in Cairo
2010–2012: MSc in Human Sexuality, University of Amsterdam
2012–2016: PhD in Sensuality & Passion Studies, University College London

Professional Experience

2016–2018: Sexuality Research Consultant, European Institute for Relationship Studies
2018–2021: Senior Lecturer in Sensuality & Intimacy, University of Amsterdam
2021–Present: Director of Passion & Intimacy Programs, Global Sensuality Initiative
Private practice: Coaching individuals and couples on erotic fulfillment and relational passion

Selected Scientific Publications

El‑Sharif, M. (2022). "The Role of Desire Mapping in Sustaining Passionate Relationships." Journal of Sexual and Relationship Health, 15(3), 178–195.
El‑Sharif, M., & Tan, L. (2020). "Sensuality as a Predictor of Emotional Intimacy in Long-Term Partnerships." International Journal of Erotic Psychology, 9(2), 88–105.
El‑Sharif, M. (2018). "The Pleasure Paradigm: Integrating Sensuality in Sexual Education." Sexual Health & Education Review, 6(4), 34–56.

Research Cases and Project Results

Desire Mapping Study (2021): Conducted a longitudinal study with 200 couples exploring the effect of structured desire mapping on relationship satisfaction. Results showed a 42% increase in perceived emotional intimacy after 6 months.
Sensuality Workshops (2019–2022): Led over 50 workshops globally with 1,500+ participants, improving reported sexual self-confidence by an average of 37%.
Passion Revitalization Program (2020): Implemented intervention programs for couples in Amsterdam and London, resulting in measurable improvement in both sexual desire and relational communication metrics.

Quotes

"Sensuality is not just pleasure—it is a pathway to emotional depth and authentic connection." — Dr. Mariam El‑Sharif
"Mapping desire allows couples to communicate their needs without shame or judgment, transforming intimacy into an evolving dialogue." — International Journal of Erotic Psychology, 2020

Professional Memberships

International Association for Sexual Health (IASH)
World Association for Sexual Medicine (WASM)
European Erotic & Relationship Studies Network (EERSN)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Researcher, UNESCO “Global Sensuality and Passion Education Program” (2021–Present)
Advisor, WHO “Emotional & Sexual Wellbeing in Couples” Initiative (2019–2022)
Collaborator, European Commission “Relationship Passion Metrics Project” (2018–2020)

Work on Educational Programs

Creator of the “Intimacy and Desire Curriculum” for higher education
Developed online modules on sensuality and erotic self-awareness
Training programs for coaches and therapists on integrating passion metrics into therapy

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on BBC Radio 4: “The Science of Desire and Intimacy”
TEDx Talk: “Unlocking Passion: The Science of Sensual Connection” (2022)
Host of the “Passion Lab Podcast” on intimacy and sexual empowerment

Unique Values and Experience

Mariam brings a unique combination of rigorous scientific research, hands-on coaching experience, and culturally nuanced approaches to sexual health. Her work emphasizes pleasure, emotional depth, and authentic connection, helping individuals and couples reclaim passion and intimacy in their lives.