Stephen Kemp

Stephen Kemp, Ph.D., is an Associate Research Professor in the Department of Surgery BME at the University of Michigan. His work focuses on advancing neuroprosthetics and regenerative medicine through innovative surgical techniques and biomaterials. Dr. Kemp’s research integrates neural engineering, tissue engineering, and biomedical engineering to address challenges in post-amputation pain management, prosthetic control, and peripheral nerve regeneration.

Key research areas include the development of regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNIs) for pain mitigation and enhanced prosthetic control, as well as preclinical models for studying neuropathic pain and neuroma formation. He has pioneered approaches to optimize muscle grafts and nerve regeneration in both rodent models and clinical trials.

His recent work explores biomimetic sensory feedback systems to improve the functionality of neuroprosthetics, emphasizing the integration of somatosensory signals. Dr. Kemp’s studies also investigate the long-term outcomes of RPNI surgery in pediatric and adult amputee populations, with a focus on reducing reliance on opioids and enhancing quality of life.

Notable contributions include the design of composite RPNI (C-RPNI) systems for multi-modal sensory feedback and the use of novel animal models to evaluate radiation-induced neuropathy. His interdisciplinary approach bridges engineering, neuroscience, and clinical practice, aiming to translate laboratory discoveries into tangible patient benefits.