Kari L. Hoffman

Dr. Kari L. Hoffman is an Associate Professor in Psychological Sciences at Vanderbilt University, specializing in neural computation, neuromodulation, and plasticity underlying perception, learning, and memory. Her research employs customized high-density multi-site recording arrays, selective stimulation, and wireless recording technology to measure and manipulate cell assembly activity and network dynamics.

Her research interests focus on understanding how neural ensembles encode and retrieve memories across species. Using macaque monkeys and human patients, she investigates neural correlates of memory during perceptual tasks, with particular emphasis on hippocampal function, sharp-wave ripples, and the effects of deep brain stimulation on memory processes in Alzheimer's disease. Her work bridges basic neuroscience with clinical applications.

Dr. Hoffman has established significant collaborations with Dr. Andres Lozano on deep brain stimulation for Alzheimer's disease and with Dr. Taufik Valiante on intracranial recordings in epilepsy patients. Her lab has produced notable research on wireless neural recording in freely behaving primates and cross-species memory mechanisms.

Scientific recognition includes her lab members receiving awards such as the 3-year Alzheimer's Society scholarship awarded to student Ahmed.

Dr. Hoffman actively mentors graduate students including Ahmed, Michelle, Omid, and Tim, and regularly presents at major conferences including the Winter Conference on Learning and Memory and Park City Neurobiology of Learning and Memory. She also engages in public outreach through events like the Krembil Foundation's Cutting Edge series and presentations at locations such as the Toronto Library.