Sebastian Doeltgen

Associate Professor Sebastian Doeltgen serves as Dean (Education) at Flinders University's College of Nursing and Health Sciences and is a Full Member of the Caring Futures Institute. He also holds an Early Career Researcher position at the College of Science and Engineering within the Medical Device Research Institute. With expertise in speech pathology and swallowing disorders, his academic journey spans Germany, New Zealand, and Australia.

• Graduated in Germany in 2003
• Completed post-graduate study in swallowing rehabilitation at Christchurch, New Zealand (2005-2009)
• Served as NHMRC Postdoctoral Research Fellow at University of Adelaide's Robinson Institute until October 2012

His research focuses on dysphagia (swallowing disorders), particularly their neuro-pathological correlates and socio-economic impact. He investigates swallowing neuromotor control using advanced assessment tools including pharyngeal manometry, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and transcranial direct current stimulation. His work addresses critical questions about sensorimotor processes during swallowing, effects of rehabilitative interventions, and nervous system damage impacts.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on clinical reasoning in dysphagia assessment, machine learning applications for risk identification, and behavioral interventions for swallowing rehabilitation. His research consistently bridges basic science with translational approaches toward novel swallowing interventions, addressing the significant health complications and quality-of-life impacts associated with dysphagia.

• 110 total research outputs across multiple publication types
• h-index of 24 with 1536 citations
• Active research output through 2025

Professor Doeltgen has completed supervisions for 5 students in Speech Pathology and Swallowing Disorders. He has secured research funding for projects including 'Screen, Clean, Hydrate – towards better outcomes in acute stroke' (2022-2023), which focused on cerebrovascular accident and stroke unit improvements. His research contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to health and well-being.

His work extends to collaborations across multiple research areas, with notable fingerprints including Plummer-Vinson Syndrome (100%), Dysphagia (72%), Apoplexy (41%), Sphincter (38%), Cerebrovascular Accident (36%), Manometry (29%), Fluid Intake (21%), and Systematic Review (14%).