Laila Craighero is a full Professor at the University of Ferrara , affiliated with the Section of Human Physiology under the Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation. Her research focuses on the sensorimotor system's role in cognitive functions , particularly motor resonance , biological kinematics , and human-robot interaction . She has published extensively on topics such as stroke rehabilitation , neonatal development , and digital action semantics . Her recent publications (2024–2020) explore: Mechanisms of motor resonance in stroke and Parkinson’s patients Sensorimotor activation in fibromyalgia and newborns Timing in human-robot collaborative tasks Digital action recognition via smartphone typing dynamics She teaches Psychobiology and related courses across multiple degree programs, including Medicine and Surgery , Nursing , and Motors Sciences .
Julia Berezutskaya serves as an Assistant Professor at Utrecht University within the Brain strategic program, leading the Utrecht-BCI lab dedicated to developing neurotechnology for individuals with motor impairments. Her research focuses on creating brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to enable communication and computer control for people with severe movement disabilities, emphasizing patient-centered artificial intelligence applications in medical care. Her primary research areas include decoding neural signals for BCI applications, developing specialized BCI software and interactive games, and integrating functional electrical stimulation to reanimate paralyzed muscles. This work bridges fundamental neuroscience with clinical neurotechnology, targeting neurological and psychiatric disorders through innovative neuroengineering solutions that translate brain activity into actionable outputs for rehabilitation. Recent publication trends reveal a strong emphasis on electrode optimization for sensorimotor cortex recordings (2024), hybrid BCI-FES systems for motor restoration (2023), and advanced deep learning models for speech reconstruction from neural data (2023). These contributions demonstrate consistent progress in making BCIs more reliable, clinically applicable, and responsive to user needs across neurorehabilitation contexts. The Utrecht-BCI lab operates at the intersection of neuroscience, engineering, and AI, with a mission to elucidate neuronal mechanisms underlying healthy brain function to develop transformative neurotechnologies. Current projects focus on enhancing BCI accessibility through user-centered design while addressing ethical considerations in patient-centered AI deployment for neurological care.
Erik C. Prinsen is an Associate Professor specializing in Biomechatronics and Rehabilitation Technology at the TechMed Centre. His research focuses on neurorehabilitation technologies, stroke recovery, prosthetics, and robotics-assisted therapies. He contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being. Key research areas include stroke rehabilitation strategies, functional electrical stimulation (FES), and the integration of robotics in clinical settings. Notable work includes studies on caregiver-mediated telerehabilitation systems for stroke patients, hybrid lower limb rehabilitation systems, and systematic reviews on robot-assisted therapies. Recent studies emphasize clinical feasibility of assist-as-needed systems and biomechanical adaptations in amputee populations. His work bridges engineering innovations with clinical outcomes, addressing challenges in gait restoration and motor recovery. Prinsen has presented research findings at conferences including talks on prosthetic knee biomechanics and gait asymmetry in amputees. He has supervised 3 academic works and collaborates internationally on rehabilitation technologies.
Pouran D. Faghri is an Adjunct Professor at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health's Department of Environmental Health Sciences, affiliated with the UCLA Center for Occupational & Environmental Health (COEH). Previously, she held professorships at the University of Connecticut in Allied Health Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, and Public Health, serving as Director of the Center for Environmental Health and Health Promotion. She completed her M.D. at the University of Isfahan (1981), a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Wright State University (1983), and an M.S. in Physiology and Biophysics (1987). Her research focuses on occupational health interventions, biomechanics of movement in neurological disorders, and functional electrical stimulation (FES) for rehabilitation. Key areas include workplace ergonomics, Total Worker Health®, and integrating health promotion with injury prevention. She developed Connecticut’s ConnectiFIT worksite health program and pioneered FES cycling for spinal cord injury patients, holding a patent related to FES applications. Her work is funded by NSF and federal agencies. Dr. Faghri serves on editorial boards, reviews grants for national/international agencies, and evaluates social/environmental determinants of health. She addresses chronic disease risk factors (mental health, musculoskeletal issues, diabetes) and health disparities through intervention strategies. Labs/Teams: UCLA COEH, Center for Promotion of Health in New England Workplace (NIOSH-funded) Grants: Continuous federal/private funding including NSF projects on tissue regeneration via electrical stimulation
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Michaela M. Pinter is a Professor at the University for Continuing Education Krems, affiliated with the Department for Clinical Neurosciences and Preventive Medicine. Her research focuses on neurorehabilitation, particularly leveraging technologies like functional electrical stimulation (FES) and botulinum toxin therapy to improve mobility and quality of life in patients with neurological disorders such as stroke, spasticity, and dystonia. She leads projects investigating the clinical impacts of treatment delays during pandemics and the long-term efficacy of implantable devices for gait improvement. Pinter has contributed to peer-reviewed journals and textbooks, emphasizing stroke rehabilitation, post-stroke cognitive decline, and innovative therapies for movement disorders. Her academic contributions include over a decade of research on stroke recovery mechanisms, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and the role of cardiovascular exercise in post-stroke patients. Pinter has presented at international conferences, including the World Congress for Neurorehabilitation, and collaborates with clinical institutions on training workshops for botulinum toxin application and dystonia management.
Strahinja Dosen is a Professor and Head of Research Group in the Department of Health Science and Technology at Aalborg University's Faculty of Medicine. His research focuses on neurorehabilitation systems, particularly in rehabilitation engineering, robotics, and human-machine interfaces. He holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Aalborg University (2009) and serves as a Visiting Professor at the University of Novi Sad. His work addresses cutting-edge topics like myoelectric control, brain-machine interfaces, artificial sensory feedback, and functional electrical stimulation. Key projects include the development of closed-loop robotic prostheses and sensory feedback systems for amputees. Dosen has led over 17 research projects, including the PERSONIFY initiative on powered ankle prosthesis control and the DexterHand bionic prosthetics platform. With 216+ publications, his research emphasizes improving prosthetic control through electrotactile/haptic feedback, 5G-enabled bionic limbs, and stroke rehabilitation robotics. He collaborates internationally on neurorehabilitation technologies and has been featured in media for innovations like thought-controlled prosthetics and robotic rehabilitation systems. Grants and collaborations include EU-funded projects and industry partnerships. His team's work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and innovation. Dosen advises on 6 PhD students and actively participates in academic workshops and editorial roles in haptics and prosthetics.
Vincent M. Conroy serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Medicine, with secondary appointment in Neurobiology. His clinical and academic expertise spans Human Anatomy, Performing Arts Rehabilitation, Orthopedic Rehabilitation, and Geriatric Rehabilitation, with additional specialization in Wound Management. Dr. Conroy's educational foundation includes: D.Sc.P.T (2005) from University of Maryland School of Medicine B.S. in Physical Therapy (1990) from University of Maryland School of Medicine A.S. in Allied Health Science (1988) from Nassau County Community College His research program centers on evidence-based orthopedic physical therapy interventions with anatomical rationale, Functional Electrical Stimulation applications, and community service delivery to underserved populations. Clinical interests manifest in specialized rehabilitation for performing artists, geriatric patients, and complex orthopedic cases including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and pelvic floor dysfunction. His scholarly approach blends anatomical science with practical clinical solutions through case-based investigations. Analysis of his 2006-2017 publications reveals consistent innovation in rehabilitation methodologies, particularly FES-enhanced stroke recovery protocols and manual therapy techniques for elite athletes. His work demonstrates interdisciplinary connections between anatomy, neurorehabilitation, and women's health, frequently addressing niche clinical challenges through feasibility studies and case reports presented at national conferences. Professional recognition includes: UMB CBEL Fellowship Health Care Hero award (Maryland Daily Record, 2007) Alumnus of the Year (PT & Rehabilitation Science Alumni Association, 2007) Dr. Conroy maintains active professional engagement through the American Physical Therapy Association, Maryland Anatomical Board, and National Ski Patrol. His commitment to community extends through student-led service initiatives for underserved populations, though no formal advising relationships or grant funding details are publicly documented.
Professor Yoshihiro Muraoka at Waseda University's Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Science and Welfare, is a leading researcher in biomedical engineering and rehabilitation science. With academic roots at Keio University (Ph.D. in Engineering), he has developed innovative neurorehabilitation technologies including the IVES system and wearable power-assist locomotors. Keio University (1991-2000): Instrumentation Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Academic career spanning multiple institutions including Fujita Health University and National Hospital Organization Murayama Medical Center His research focuses on medical assistive technologies, particularly neuromodulation and biofeedback systems for neurological rehabilitation. Key areas include: Electromyography-controlled stimulation (IVES) Wearable inertial measurement unit applications Spasticity quantification and treatment Hybrid assistive neuromuscular stimulation (HANDS) Smartphone-integrated medical devices Gait analysis system development Recent publications demonstrate his work's emphasis on: Real-time posture estimation using IMUs Motor point stimulation optimization for spasticity reduction Teacher-learner interaction dynamics in motor skill acquisition Low-cost, portable rehabilitation solutions Cortical perfusion modulation during neurorehabilitation Quantitative assessment of physical activity in wheelchair users His 20+ years of clinical research have produced numerous practical applications including: Commercially available IVES stimulators Wearable Power-Assist Locomotor (WPAL) for paraplegic gait Smartphone-connected EMG biofeedback devices Hybrid neuromuscular stimulation therapy systems
Christine Azevedo Coste is a Research Director at Inria, specializing in Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) for paralysis rehabilitation. She serves on the IFESS society board, PIQ Quadrant expert committee for high-risk digital research, and GdR Robotique committee, while coordinating the HanditechLab INRIA (HLI) initiative with Roger Pissard-Gibollet. Her research focuses on restoring mobility through FES, with active projects including AI-HAND for tetraplegic grasping restoration and FREEWHEELS for FES-cycling in lower limb paralysis. She champions frugal, open-source assistive technology solutions and leads clinical evaluations like the Cyclosef protocol for cycling endurance using embedded Raspberry Pi controllers and inertial sensors. Dr. Azevedo Coste actively bridges research and education through science outreach, developing collaborative projects with elementary schools such as robot-assisted environmental cleanup systems and sensor-equipped footwear for blind student inclusion, demonstrating her commitment to accessible technology and STEM engagement.
Davy Laroche is a Full Professor of Rehabilitation Science at the University of Burgundy, France. He serves as Director of the Department of Rehabilitation Professions within the Health Sciences Faculty (UFR Sciences de Santé). His expertise lies in developing innovative neuromuscular and biomechanical protocols to optimize motor function recovery in patients undergoing rehabilitation. Key roles include Vice-President of the STARTER research network focused on AI-driven motor rehabilitation strategies. Education: Masters in Biomechanics (2003), PhD in Neuroscience (2006), and HDR (Habilitation) in Rehabilitation Science (2019) from the University of Burgundy's INSERM CAPS lab. Research focuses on: Physiology of Movement, Biomechanical Optimization, Neurorehabilitation Technologies, and Sensorimotor Deficiencies. Over 80 peer-reviewed publications since 2003, with recent emphasis on eccentric cycling protocols in cardiac patients, gait analysis post-surgery, and post-stroke vibration therapy. Notable contributions include developing the Frail’BESTest balance assessment tool and pioneering IMU insole technology for gait analysis. Active in collaborative projects involving 3D motion datasets and clinical trial protocols for functional recovery metrics.
Michael J. Fu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Case Western Reserve University's Case School of Engineering. He holds appointments as Bioscientific Staff at The MetroHealth System and Research Scientist at the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center. His research focuses on neurorehabilitation technologies, functional electrical stimulation, and haptic interfaces with applications in stroke, spinal cord injury, and cerebral palsy rehabilitation. Education: PhD in Electrical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University (2011) MS in Electrical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University (2006) BS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley (2003) Research Interests: Dr. Fu develops innovative assistive technologies integrating virtual environments, video games, and functional electrical stimulation (FES) for neurorehabilitation. His work emphasizes home-based therapies for pediatric hemiplegia and stroke patients, leveraging haptic interfaces and advanced signal processing techniques. Current projects include low-cost bioimpedance monitoring systems and contralateral FES control mechanisms. Awards & Recognition: 2021 XPRIZE Foundation All Nippon Airways Avatar XPRIZE Semifinalist 2021 CWRU Office of the Provost Think Big Leadership Award 2020 NSF CAREER Award 2015 Cleveland CTSC Best Poster Award Grants & Professional Activities: Recipient of National Science Foundation funding (CAREER grant). Active member of the American Society of Neurorehabilitation since 2014. His collaborative projects bridge engineering and clinical medicine, involving partnerships with major healthcare institutions in Cleveland. Labs & Teams: Leads research initiatives in neurorehabilitation engineering at Case School of Engineering, collaborating with MetroHealth and VA Medical Center teams to translate engineering innovations into clinical solutions.
About José L. Pons Dr. José L. Pons is a world-renowned scientist and researcher in the field of neurorehabilitation and neural engineering. He leads the Neurorehabilitation and Neural Engineering Laboratory at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, part of Northwestern University. His work focuses on developing advanced methods to measure and restore lower-limb function in patients with spinal cord injury, stroke, Parkinson's disease, and other movement disorders. He has authored over 150 peer-reviewed articles and pioneered innovations in wearable robotics, neuroprosthetics, and movement sensor technologies. Education & Training Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, University of Navarra PhD in Physics, Complutense University of Madrid Research Interests Dr. Pons' research spans wearable robotics , neuroprosthetics , and gait rehabilitation . He has developed robotic devices for children with cerebral palsy, advanced prosthetics for amputees, and technologies to study balance and tremors in Parkinson's patients. His recent work emphasizes closed-loop sensory stimulation for tremor management and neuromechanical modeling for exoskeleton control. Awards & Recognition Fellow of the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE, 2021) Leadership roles in global research networks, including CSIC (Spain's National Research Council) Labs & Teams He directs the Neurorehabilitation and Neural Engineering Lab at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, collaborating with clinical and engineering teams to translate research into clinical tools. His lab is part of the Legs + Walking Lab initiative, advancing technologies like multi-channel electrodes and adaptive exoskeletons .
Claudio Castellini is a Professor of Medical Robotics at Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), leading the Assistive Intelligent Robotics (AIROB) Lab. He holds a dual role as Deputy Dean for Public Relations and Communication in the Faculty of Engineering. His research focuses on rehabilitation robotics, human-machine interfaces, and machine learning applications in biomedical engineering. Castellini obtained his Biomedical Engineering degree from the University of Genoa and a PhD in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Edinburgh. Prior to FAU, he served as a senior researcher and lab leader at the German Aerospace Centre's Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics. His work emphasizes assistive robotic systems for the disabled, including prosthetic control, exoskeletons, and neural interfaces. He has co-authored over 160 scientific papers and leads projects at regional, national, and European levels. Castellini is actively involved in editorial roles for journals like IEEE Transactions on Neuro-engineering and Rehabilitation and serves on the board of the International Consortium of Rehabilitation Robotics (ICORR). His research spans innovation in prosthetic control algorithms, wearable robotics, and clinical applications of robotics in neurorehabilitation. Key publications include advancements in LSTM-based grip strength prediction, impedance-controlled orthoses, and spinal cord-computer interfaces for paralyzed hand control. His lab’s AIROB innovations aim to bridge clinical needs with robotic solutions, emphasizing user-centric design. Castellini’s contributions also include open-source hardware development and collaborations on neurorobotic interfaces, such as ultrasound-based control systems. He actively engages in public outreach and interdisciplinary research, fostering connections between engineering and clinical practice.
Anthony F. DiMarco is a Professor at Case Western Reserve University, holding dual roles in the Case School of Engineering (Neural Engineering Center) and the School of Medicine (Department of Physiology and Biophysics). He is also an Investigator at the Cleveland FES Center. His research focuses on neural engineering, neurophysiology, and clinical applications of biomedical engineering, particularly in neural prosthetics and rehabilitation technologies. Affiliations: Professor, Neural Engineering Center, Case School of Engineering Professor, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine Investigator, Cleveland FES Center Research Interests: Dr. DiMarco’s work bridges engineering and medicine, emphasizing neural interface systems, neurorehabilitation, and translational neuroscience. His projects likely involve developing technologies to restore function in individuals with neurological disorders or injuries, leveraging interdisciplinary collaborations. Grants & Advising: No specific grants or advising details are provided in the source text. Labs/Teams: Active within the Cleveland FES Center, a leader in functional electrical stimulation research for paralysis and neurological conditions.
Professor Gennady Valentynovych Snizhnoy is a distinguished academic at National University Zaporizhzhya Polytechnic, where he has served since 1992. Holding the position of Professor in the Department of Physical Materials Science within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical, he has made significant contributions to materials science, particularly in the fields of magnetometry, automated measuring systems, and quality control. With dual doctoral degrees (Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences and Doctor of Technical Sciences), he actively participates in the Academic Council of the university and the Scientific and Technical Council. Snizhnoy received his higher education from Dnipropetrovsk State University (1988, Physics), Zaporizhia State Technical University (1998, Finance and Credit), and National University Zaporizhzhya Polytechnic (Automation and Instrumentation). His academic journey culminated with a Candidate's thesis in 1991 on 'Thermo- and photo-stimulated polarization of Bi 12 SiO 20 crystals' and a Doctoral dissertation in 2019 on 'Scientific foundations of the influence of the magnetic state of the structure on the properties of austenitic steels.' Professor Snizhnoy's research primarily focuses on the relationship between magnetic properties and material performance, particularly in austenitic steels. His work bridges theoretical physics with practical engineering applications, developing innovative methods for quality control through magnetometric assessment. He has pioneered approaches to predict material behavior in corrosive environments, significantly contributing to the longevity and reliability of industrial components. His recent work shows increasing integration of digital technologies with traditional materials science, reflecting the Industry 4.0 paradigm. Analysis of Professor Snizhnoy's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on corrosion resistance of specialized steels, particularly examining how magnetic properties correlate with material performance. His work spans multiple disciplines including materials science, electrochemistry, and engineering design, with practical applications in heat exchangers, mining equipment, and other industrial systems. The research demonstrates a consistent focus on developing non-destructive testing methods and predictive models for material behavior. Badge for 'Exemplary Work' III degree (2020) Appreciation from Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (2020) Appreciation from Zaporizhzhia Regional State Administration (2018) Honorary Certificate from Zaporizhzhia City Council Executive Committee (2016) Honorary Certificates from Zaporizhzhia National Technical University (2014, 2016) Professor Snizhnoy has taught numerous courses including Computer Measurement Systems, Fundamentals of Magnetometry of Structural Materials, and Quality Management and Certification. His research has been supported by various grants, including international funding from the Soros Scientific Foundation, enabling significant advancements in materials characterization techniques. His work demonstrates active involvement in research laboratories focused on magnetometry, corrosion testing, and materials analysis. Professor Snizhnoy's collaborative approach spans engineering disciplines, particularly in areas requiring interdisciplinary solutions to complex materials challenges in industrial applications.
