Leah R. Bent

Dr. Leah R. Bent is a Professor in the Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences at the University of Guelph's College of Biological Sciences. Her research focuses on sensory contributions to movement, balance control, and postural adjustments, particularly in aging populations. She leads the Bent Neurophysiology Lab, utilizing advanced techniques like microneurography and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to study neural pathways. She holds a B.Sc. in Human Kinetics from the University of Guelph, an M.Sc. from the University of Guelph, a Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia, and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in Australia.

Her work investigates sensory integration mechanisms, including vestibular, cutaneous, and muscle inputs, to understand mobility challenges linked to sensory decline. Key areas include spinal cord reflex modulation, cortical plasticity, and device development (e.g., shoe insoles) to enhance sensory function. She has advised multiple graduate students and contributed to over 8 peer-reviewed publications since 2010. Her lab actively explores aging-related mobility issues and sensory rehabilitation strategies.