Paul Stephen Cederna

Paul Stephen Cederna, M.D., is the Robert Oneal Collegiate Professor of Plastic Surgery and a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan. Since 1999, he has been a full-time academic surgeon and director of the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, integrating clinical excellence with cutting-edge research in reconstructive surgery and neuroengineering.

Education and Training:

• Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan College of Engineering
• M.D., University of Michigan Medical School
• Residency in General Surgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
• Fellowship in Microsurgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
• Plastic Surgery Fellowship, University of Michigan Health System
• Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, Muscle Mechanics Lab, University of Michigan

Research Interests:

Dr. Cederna’s research spans three core areas: muscle dysfunction following reinnervation, peripheral nerve reconstruction, and development of peripheral nerve interfaces for upper extremity prosthesis control. His lab pioneers regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNIs) to restore natural limb function and mitigate chronic postamputation pain. He integrates biomedical engineering with surgical innovation to advance neuroprosthetic control and sensory feedback systems.

Clinical and Scientific Impact:

He has authored over 180 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 24 book chapters, and delivered more than 600 presentations globally. His work has attracted over $24 million in direct research funding. He has mentored 60 students, 40 research fellows, and 15 postdoctoral fellows across biomedical engineering and physiology.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• Best Doctors in America
• America’s Top Plastic Surgeons
• America’s Most Compassionate Doctors
• Marquis Who’s Who in America
• America’s Top Surgeons
• Over 65 national research awards as first author or mentor

Leadership and Service:

Dr. Cederna has served as Chairman of the Plastic Surgery Research Council, President of the American Society for Peripheral Nerve, President of the Michigan Academy of Plastic Surgeons, and on the Board of Directors for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He has also served as President of the Plastic Surgery Foundation.

Laboratory and Teams:

He directs the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory at the University of Michigan, leading a multidisciplinary team of engineers, surgeons, and neuroscientists. The lab is a hub for translational research in neuroprosthetics, muscle regeneration, and peripheral nerve repair.