Douglas Weber

Douglas Weber is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), where he leads research at the intersection of neuroscience and engineering. He is a founding member of DARPA’s Biological Technologies Office and has led major neurotechnology programs, including HAPTIX, ElectRx, and TNT. His research is centered at the NeuroMechatronics Lab, with collaborations at the University of Pittsburgh and industry partners like Meta. He is actively engaged in developing neuroprosthetics, spinal cord stimulation, and wearable devices for sensory and motor restoration.

• Ph.D., Bioengineering, Arizona State University (2001)
• MS, Bioengineering, Arizona State University (2000)
• BS, Biomedical Engineering, Milwaukee School of Engineering (1994)
• Post-doctoral training, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Alberta

Douglas Weber's research focuses on understanding sensory feedback in motor control, neuroplasticity, and the development of neurotechnologies for individuals with stroke, spinal cord injury, or limb loss. His work spans neural engineering, biomechanics, neuromodulation, and bioelectronic medicine. He aims to translate academic research into real-world applications, such as brain-computer interfaces and sensory-restoring prosthetics. His lab explores high-density electromyography (HD-sEMG), spinal cord stimulation, and closed-loop systems to enhance human-machine interaction.

The recent articles reflect a strong emphasis on spinal cord and peripheral nerve stimulation, brain-computer interfaces, and sensory feedback restoration. Many studies investigate neuromodulation for motor recovery, endovascular BCIs, and non-invasive stimulation techniques. There is a recurring theme of clinical translation, with multiple early feasibility trials and human studies. The work integrates electrophysiology, signal processing, and rehabilitation engineering to improve outcomes for patients with neurological impairments.

Douglas Weber has mentored over 100 undergraduate, graduate, and medical students, as well as several postdoctoral fellows. He holds eight issued U.S. patents and has secured significant research funding, including awards from ARPA-H and collaborations with the Pitt CTSI. His work has led to practical technologies aimed at improving independence for individuals with paralysis or limb loss.

He is actively involved in several research teams and labs, most notably the NeuroMechatronics Lab at CMU. His team collaborates with institutions like the University of Pittsburgh and industry partners such as Meta to develop wearable interfaces and implantable devices. Projects include wristband-based sEMG control systems, spinal cord stimulation for stroke recovery, and bioelectronic implants for chronic disease management.