Semyon M. Slobounov

Semyon M. Slobounov is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at The Pennsylvania State University and holds a joint appointment in the Department of Neurosurgery. He is affiliated with the Penn State Neuroscience Institute and directs the Virtual Reality/Traumatic Brain Injury Research Laboratory.

• Ph.D. in Kinesiology (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1994)
• Ph.D. in Psychology (University of Leningrad, 1978)
• B.S. (Azerbaidjan State Institute, 1973)

His research focuses on the neural basis of human movement, with emphasis on rehabilitation medicine, neurophysiology, and sports-related concussion. Key methodologies include functional MRI, EEG, and virtual reality for studying postural control and cognitive function in traumatic brain injury populations.

Recent publications highlight work on functional connectivity alterations in football players, comorbid depression in concussed athletes, and head acceleration exposure across seasons. Trends show integration of neuroimaging with clinical outcomes.

Scientific Awards:

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Grant (2007-2013): 'Identification of Athletes at Risk for Traumatic Brain Injuries'

He has contributed to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being through concussion research. The Virtual Reality/Traumatic Brain Injury Research Laboratory under his leadership explores neural mechanisms and rehabilitation strategies for brain injuries.