Christian Éthier is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience at the Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval. His research focuses on understanding and leveraging neuronal plasticity to repair neural circuits after injury or stroke, particularly through neuroprosthetics and brain-computer interfaces. Current position: Associate Professor, Université Laval Research focus: Neuronal plasticity, motor recovery, neuroelectronic interfaces Lab affiliation: Ethier Lab Dr. Éthier investigates how electrochemical neuronal activity modulates neural connections, aiming to develop neuroprostheses that restore motor function in paralyzed patients. His work bridges engineering and neuroscience, emphasizing cortical and spinal motor network reorganization. Recent publications highlight collaborations in wireless electro-optic platforms for optogenetics, corticospinal excitability studies, and neurostimulation applications for stroke rehabilitation. His lab at Université Laval, part of the CERVO Brain Research Centre, specializes in neuroprosthetic devices tested in primate and rodent models. Dr. Éthier’s team explores methods to guide neural reorganization using electrical/optical stimulation, targeting impairments from spinal cord injuries. While no specific scientific awards are mentioned in the provided text, his interdisciplinary approach is reflected in publications spanning neuroscience, engineering, and rehabilitation journals.
Tolga Çukur is a Professor at Bilkent University, affiliated with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, National Magnetic Resonance Research Center (UMRAM), Aysel Sabuncu Brain Research Center, and Neuroscience Graduate Program. His research focuses on computational imaging methods for biomedical applications and computational neuroscience. PhD in Electrical Engineering, Stanford University (2009) BSc in Electrical-Electronics Engineering, Bilkent University (2003) Research Interests : Develops ultra-fast MRI and MPI techniques using deep learning for vascular, musculoskeletal, and neurological disease diagnosis. Investigates human brain function during natural behavior via fMRI and machine learning, mapping semantic representations and cognitive processes. Scientific Awards : Rambus Stanford Graduate Fellowship TUBITAK Career Award (2015) TUBA-GEBIP Outstanding Young Scientist Award (2015) BAGEP Young Scientist Award (2017) IEEE Turkey Research Encouragement Award (2017) Science Heroes Association Young Scientist of the Year Award (2017) METU Prof. Dr. Mustafa Parlar Foundation Research Incentive Award (2019) TUSEB Aziz Sancar Incentive Award (2021) Senior Member of IEEE (2017) Fellow of ISMRM (2024) Labs & Teams : Leads the ICON Lab (Imaging and Computational Neuroscience Lab), affiliated with UMRAM, EEE Department, and Neuroscience Program at Bilkent University.
Katinka Stecina, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology at the Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba. Her research focuses on sensory-motor integration and spinal neural networks, with an emphasis on neural control of movement. BSc in Biology and Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte (1998) PhD in Physiology, University of Manitoba (2006) Postdoctoral training at Gothenburg University (Sweden) and University of Copenhagen (Denmark) Dr. Stecina investigates the role of thoracic cholinergic and serotonergic neurons in walking control using rodent models with optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches. She also explores non-invasive electrical stimulation in humans to enhance motor function rehabilitation post-spinal injury. Her work is affiliated with the Spinal Cord Research Centre at the University of Manitoba. Research themes include electrophysiology, spinal networks, and dynamic neuromuscular stabilization. She holds a cross-appointment as Adjunct in Biomedical Engineering, Price Faculty of Engineering, and collaborates with colleagues to translate basic science into novel rehabilitation strategies. She is not currently accepting graduate students.
Aidas Alaburda is a Professor at Vilnius University's Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics. With a career spanning over two decades, his work bridges neurobiology , biophysics , and cell signaling , focusing on electrical signal transduction in neurons and stem cells. His research explores spinal motoneuron dynamics , calcium signaling , and synaptic plasticity . He has developed mathematical models of synaptic transmission and studied electrical stimulation 's role in tissue engineering. His 2011 Lithuanian Science Prize recognizes significant contributions to understanding neuronal adaptation and ion channel mechanisms . Recent publications (2024-2025) analyze TGF-β3/IL-1β effects on calcium homeostasis , HiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes on biomaterial scaffolds, and hippocampal neuron development . His work combines experimental electrophysiology with computational modeling , advancing knowledge of biomechanical signaling and neural network resilience . Scientific awards : 2011 Lithuanian Science Prize
James A. Hokanson is an Assistant Professor in the Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering at Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin. His work focuses on neural engineering approaches to improve pelvic floor and bladder dysfunction treatment. Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering (University of Pittsburgh, 2014) Postdoctoral Fellowship (Duke University, 2014-2019) B.S. in Biomedical and Electrical Engineering (Washington University in St. Louis, 2006) Dr. Hokanson's research integrates neural engineering , electrical stimulation therapy , and machine learning for clinical diagnostics in urological disorders. His team develops state-dependent neuromodulation systems for bladder control, with a focus on pelvic floor dysfunction and autonomic nervous system interactions . His recent publications (2024-2025) examine bladder compliance , sacral neuromodulation prediction models, and brain-bladder connectivity through advanced MRI analysis . Current projects include real-time neural decoding and adaptive stimulation algorithms for urinary disorders. Dr. Hokanson directs the Pelvic Diagnostics & Therapeutic Laboratory (PDAT) and holds grants from the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment (2025) and National Institutes of Health (2020-2023). He collaborates with the LURN Study Group on lower urinary tract dysfunction phenotyping and treatment outcome prediction.
Jodie Marquez is an Associate Professor at the University of Newcastle, School of Health Sciences, where she serves as the Director of Research Ethics and Integrity within the Office of the PVC (Pro Vice-Chancellor) for Research. With a background as a physiotherapist with over 20 years of experience in neurological rehabilitation, she combines clinical expertise with academic leadership to advance research integrity and ethical practices at the university. Her educational background includes a Doctor of Philosophy in Physiotherapy, a Graduate Certificate in Health Promotion, and a Master of Applied Management (Health), all obtained from the University of Newcastle. She also holds a Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching, which supports her role as an educator in the Bachelor of Physiotherapy Program. Dr. Marquez's research primarily focuses on neurological rehabilitation, with particular expertise in electrical brain stimulation techniques such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and its applications in stroke rehabilitation. Her work extends to understanding mood disorders and fatigue following stroke, as well as exploring adjunct therapies including mirror therapy, exercise therapy, and hippotherapy. More recently, her research has expanded into the use of robotic exoskeletons for neurorehabilitation and the development of objective assessments for walking aid prescription in balance-impaired individuals. Her scholarly contributions span rehabilitation science, neurology, and physiotherapy, with a strong emphasis on translating research findings into clinical practice. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent trajectory in rehabilitation research with evolving focus areas. While maintaining her core interest in stroke rehabilitation and neurological recovery, she has expanded into interdisciplinary collaborations, particularly in the areas of pharmacist-physiotherapist collaboration in sport and exercise medicine, digital health applications for women's health, and innovative assessment tools for balance impairment and walking aid prescription. Her work demonstrates a progression from basic neurological rehabilitation techniques toward more complex, technology-assisted interventions and interdisciplinary healthcare models. Neural mechanisms underpinning the effects of cognitive load on postural stability with ageing ($5,000 grant from University of Newcastle) As an educator, Dr. Marquez coordinates and lectures in several Physiotherapy courses within the neurological specialization of the Bachelor of Physiotherapy Program. She actively supervises numerous honors students and research higher degree (RHD) candidates each year, contributing to the development of the next generation of rehabilitation professionals. Her teaching approach integrates her extensive clinical experience with current research evidence, creating a rich learning environment for students. With fluency in Spanish and English, she brings a multicultural perspective to her teaching and research activities. Dr. Marquez leads initiatives in research ethics and integrity at the university level, developing and implementing programs to ensure research is conducted responsibly and ethically. Her role involves providing expert advice on current and emerging issues across research portfolios, proactively driving a positive research culture, and designing researcher education programs. She has secured multiple research grants totaling $88,613, demonstrating her ability to attract funding for innovative rehabilitation research.
Dr. Denis César Leite Vieira is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Brasília, specializing in neuromuscular physiology and exercise biomechanics. His work focuses on the acute effects of stretching, muscle length-force relationships during resistance training, and physiological responses to exercise in aging populations. He serves as an Associate Researcher at the Cognition, Action, and Sensorimotor Plasticity Research Unit. PhD in Exercise Physiology, University of Brasília (2020) Collaborator with institutions in Brazil, Australia, and the USA Research interests center on neuromuscular adaptations, muscle architecture dynamics, and functional performance optimization through biomechanical analysis. Recent studies investigate: Muscle oedema recovery kinetics after single/multi-joint exercises Electrode positioning effects on quadriceps activation patterns Multifractal analysis of hamstring electromyographic changes Resistance training applications for metabolic syndrome populations International collaborations include researchers from Edith Cowan University and CUNY. Key publications span journals in sports science, geriatrics, and physiological medicine.
Ryan Girts serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health & Exercise and Science at Pfeiffer University within the Center for Health Sciences Graduate Campus. His academic role integrates teaching with research focused on neuromuscular adaptations during immobilization and rehabilitation. His research program centers on exercise science and rehabilitation physiology, examining how physical activity levels influence muscle recovery during knee immobilization, with particular attention to sex-based differences in muscle quality. He employs advanced neurophysiological techniques including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to measure corticospinal excitability and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to map brain activation during lower-body motor tasks. Key investigations explore the efficacy of motor imagery and action observation as therapeutic interventions, especially in older adult populations. Analysis of his 2022-2025 publications reveals consistent methodological rigor across neuroimaging and biomechanical assessments. His work frequently addresses measurement reliability concerns in TMS protocols, ultrasound imaging, and electromyography, highlighting the impact of variables like sonographer experience and stimulation parameters. Recurring themes include sex-specific responses to immobilization, neural adaptations to resistance training, and the relationship between motor unit recruitment and muscle function. No scientific awards were documented in available sources. Information regarding student advising, research grants, or laboratory facilities was not provided in the source materials, though his publication record indicates active collaboration in exercise physiology research.
Dr. Samuel Nurko is a Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and serves as Director of both the Center for Motility and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders and the Functional Abdominal Pain Program at Boston Children's Hospital. His clinical expertise spans pediatric gastroenterology with specialization in motility disorders and functional gastrointestinal conditions. Medical School: University Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (1981) Internship: Boston City Hospital (1982) Residency: Massachusetts General Hospital (1984) Fellowship: Boston Children's Hospital (1987) Dr. Nurko's research focuses on pediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders, with particular emphasis on motility disorders, constipation, abdominal pain conditions, and disorders of gut-brain interaction. His work bridges clinical practice with translational research, investigating both diagnostic methodologies and therapeutic interventions for children with complex gastrointestinal conditions. He has made significant contributions to understanding the pathophysiology of functional GI disorders and developing evidence-based treatment approaches. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on clinical trials of novel therapeutics (particularly linaclotide for pediatric constipation), diagnostic methodologies for motility disorders, transition care from pediatric to adult medicine, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with functional GI disorders. His work often involves large multicenter collaborations and contributes to international consensus guidelines. Dr. Nurko holds certifications from the American Board of Pediatrics in both General Pediatrics and Pediatric Gastroenterology. His clinical specialties include constipation, encopresis, GERD, gastroparesis, gastroschisis, and Hirschsprung's disease. He directs the Functional Abdominal Pain Program and the Motility and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders Center at Boston Children's Hospital, where he oversees comprehensive care for children with complex gastrointestinal motility issues and functional disorders. His leadership in these programs has established them as national referral centers for challenging cases of pediatric motility disorders.
Lisa Ann DiPonio, MD is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Michigan Medical School , affiliated with the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation . She specializes in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine , Electrodiagnostic Medicine , and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation , with clinical responsibilities spanning inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient neurologic conditions, and leadership as Chief of the Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders service at the Ann Arbor Veterans Hospital. Education: MD from University of Michigan (1995), Residency in PM&R at University of Michigan Health System (1999) Her research focuses on functional electrical stimulation systems , quality of life improvements for spinal cord injury patients , and medical education pedagogy . She also investigates postural problems in back pain . Clinically, she manages conditions like ALS, multiple sclerosis, spasticity, and amputee care, operating the PM&R EEG & EMG Lab at University Hospital South.
Marco Knaflitz is a Full Professor in the Department of Electronics and Telecommunications (DET) at the Polytechnic University of Turin. He serves as Coordinator of the Interdepartmental Center PolitoBIOMed Lab - Biomedical Engineering Lab and is a member of the Research Ethics Committee (ARI). His academic career spans multiple decades with continuous involvement in teaching biomedical engineering programs. Professor Knaflitz's research focuses on biomedical signal processing, gait analysis, muscle synergies, medical device design and regulation, and applications of near-infrared spectroscopy. His work bridges engineering principles with clinical applications, particularly in cardiac monitoring, Parkinson's disease assessment, and rehabilitation technologies. He has developed innovative wearable sensor systems for homecare cardiac monitoring and created statistical approaches for movement analysis in both healthy and pathological conditions. His recent publications demonstrate expertise in multi-channel phonocardiography, motion artifact detection, muscle synergy analysis in neurological disorders, and development of tools for cyclical movement assessment. His research shows a strong trend toward telemedicine applications, wearable sensor technologies, and data-driven approaches to movement analysis and cardiac monitoring. Professor Knaflitz has been actively involved in numerous research projects including CARDIO 2 (wearable device for predicting acute heart failure episodes), ESOPO (exoskeleton for lower limb rehabilitation), and various studies on muscle synergies and gait analysis. He has also contributed to medical device regulation and certification processes. As an educator, he has supervised multiple PhD students working on projects related to digital twins for heart failure monitoring, functional reach-to-grasp analysis for telerehabilitation, AR/VR systems for motor rehabilitation, and sensorimotor integration studies. His teaching includes courses on medical device regulations, biomedical instrumentation, and programmable biomedical device design.
Andrew Lee, MD, PhD is an Assistant Professor at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine in the Psychiatry Department. He leads the N3 Lab and works at the TMS and Neuromodulation Clinic, actively contributing to the UCSF OCD Program.
Dr. Joshua Halonen serves as Associate Professor of Psychology in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Friends University, where he has held faculty position since 2017. He concurrently chairs the Institutional Review Board and maintains active membership in the Society for Neuroscience and American Psychological Association, mentoring students in research preparation for regional, national, and international conference presentations. His educational background includes a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Ph.D. from the University of South Florida with emphasis on behavioral neuroscience and minor in neuropharmacology. Dr. Halonen's research program investigates neural patterns of electrical activity associated with perception, problem solving, and awareness, with specific focus on stress-memory interactions, predator-based fear conditioning, and age-related hearing loss. His work employs animal models to examine PTSD mechanisms, synaptic plasticity markers, and pharmacological interventions like aldosterone therapy, bridging fundamental neuroscience with clinical applications for stress-related disorders. Analysis of his publication record from 1998-2016 reveals consistent neurobiological research themes centered on stress-induced neural adaptations, with recent emphasis on auditory system preservation and fear extinction mechanisms. Key methodological approaches include molecular marker analysis in limbic structures, behavioral assessments of predator stress models, and translational studies on social stimulation for PTSD mitigation. While no specific scientific awards are documented in available sources, his professional society memberships and student mentorship activities demonstrate scholarly engagement. Dr. Halonen actively guides psychology students through independent research design and conference presentation preparation, supported by his leadership role in the Institutional Review Board which oversees ethical research standards across campus. His mentorship extends to conference presentation coaching at multiple academic levels. Though laboratory specifics are not detailed, his research on neural activity patterns and stress responses indicates active animal-model neuroscience facilities supporting investigations into memory circuits and auditory processing.
Dimitris Koutsouras serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at the University of Bath's Faculty of Engineering & Design. He is affiliated with both the Centre for Bioengineering & Biomedical Technologies (CBio) and the Bath Institute for the Augmented Human. His research profile indicates he is actively accepting doctoral students and maintains an active research program with numerous recent publications. Dr. Koutsouras specializes in the intersection of electronics and biological systems, with research interests spanning bioelectronics, biosensing, bioelectronic medicine, biomedical devices, neurostimulation, electrochemical sensing, microfabrication, organ-on-a-chip systems, and organic electronics. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being. His recent publications demonstrate expertise in developing bioelectronic interfaces for medical applications, including nerve stimulation technologies, biosensors for disease detection, and organic electronic devices for integration with biological systems. His research shows strong interdisciplinary connections between materials science, neuroscience, and medical device engineering. Dr. Koutsouras serves as an Associate Editor for both Frontiers in Electronics (since April 2021) and Bioelectronic Medicine (since April 2023), demonstrating his standing in these academic communities. He is an active participant in the research community, having given invited presentations at multiple conferences including The Bioelectricity Cluster 2025, InnoLAE 2025, and the Electrical and Computer Engineering Student Conference of Greece.
Prof Edward Chadwick is a Professor of Bioengineering and Director of Research for the School of Engineering at the University of Aberdeen . He leads the Abdn Biomech Eng research group and contributes to the MSc in Biomedical Engineering program. His affiliations include the Electrical Systems and Electronics Research Group and Aberdeen Biomedical Imaging Centre . Research Interests Biomechanics of the shoulder and upper limb Modelling and simulation of human movement Rehabilitation engineering Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) Advanced prosthetic devices Biomedical imaging and signal processing Article Trends : Recent publications focus on soft robotics for rehabilitation, musculoskeletal simulation , and clinical applications of motion capture and ultrasound imaging . Sub-fields include shoulder instability research , FES optimization , and real-time biomechanical models . Professional Memberships : Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Member of the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (MIPEM) Member, International Society of Biomechanics (Executive Council 2013-17) Chair, Engineering Course Accreditation Panel EPSRC Peer Review College Former Member, Inspire Foundation National Scientific Committee Teaching Responsibilities : Course Coordinator for Fundamentals of Engineering in Medicine and Rehabilitation Engineering and Biomechanics at postgraduate level. Supervises individual projects across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Labs and Teams : Affiliated with Electrical Systems and Electronics Research Group and Aberdeen Biomedical Imaging Centre . Collaborates with clinical partners at specialist orthopaedic hospitals.
