Maria Knikou

Dr. Maria Knikou is a Professor specializing in neurophysiology and spinal cord injury rehabilitation. Her research focuses on neural reorganization post-injury, particularly through transpinal stimulation and locomotor training. She holds a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of Strathclyde (UK), alongside degrees in Biomechanics and Physical Therapy. Dr. Knikou’s work emphasizes improving rehabilitation strategies to enhance motor function recovery in spinal cord injury and stroke patients.

Educations:

• Ph.D., Bioengineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
• M.Sc., Biomechanics, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
• B.Sc., Physical Education, University of Athens, Greece
• B.Sc., Physical Therapy, University of Athens, Greece

Research Focus: Her studies investigate corticospinal plasticity, transpinal stimulation effects, and spinal neuronal circuit reorganization. Key areas include:

• Neurophysiological mechanisms of motor recovery
• Effects of rehabilitative training on spinal excitability
• Development of novel neuromodulation therapies

Grants & Collaborations: As Principal Investigator (PI), she leads projects funded by the New York State Department of Health and Craig H. Neilsen Foundation. Collaborators include Dr. Noam Harel (VA Bronx Medical Center & Mt. Sinai Medical School). Current projects explore transspinal/transcortical paired stimulation and activity-dependent therapies for SCI recovery.

Labs & Teams: Her research integrates clinical and experimental approaches, involving interdisciplinary teams in neurophysiology, biomedical engineering, and clinical neurorehabilitation.