Robynne Braun is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of Maryland. She is also Director of the PM&R Program and the Brain Rehab and Recovery Lab. Her research integrates kinesiology, stroke rehabilitation, and motor control. Education : PhD in Movement Sciences (University of Illinois, Chicago), MD (Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine) Her research focuses on stroke recovery , motor control , and genomic approaches to rehabilitation. She has pioneered kinematic analysis methods and gene therapy integration in neurological disorders. Recent publications highlight her work on genetic markers for stroke outcomes, robotic rehabilitation , and clinical trial design . She has received national recognition, including the 2010 ERF New Investigator Award. Scientific Awards : ERF New Investigator Award (2010) Her leadership roles include directing inpatient rehabilitation programs and collaborating on multinational stroke consortia . She bridges clinical practice with translational research to enhance neuroplasticity in stroke survivors.
Dr. Li Jin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at San José State University (SJSU). He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Human Physiology (Biomechanics) from the University of Oregon, and a B.S. in Kinesiology from Shanghai University of Sport. Prior to SJSU, he was a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Iowa. His research focuses on biomechanical patterns of the lower extremities, including footwear evaluation, injury prevention, and balance control during walking/running. Key areas include: 1) lower extremity joint mechanics during locomotion; 2) footwear design using 3D printing and material properties; 3) wearable sensor applications for clinical gait analysis. Dr. Jin teaches undergraduate and graduate biomechanics courses (KIN 158/257) at SJSU, integrating his research into pedagogy. Recent articles highlight advancements in robotic rehabilitation systems, injury mechanisms in advanced footwear, and quantitative gait analysis methods. His work spans over 15 peer-reviewed publications since 2016, with notable contributions to Biomechanics , Footwear Science , and IEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics . Professional affiliations include the American Society of Biomechanics (ASB) and American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). He actively supervises student research projects in biomechanics laboratories.
Kathleen M. Friel, Ph.D., is a prominent academic researcher and clinician specializing in neurorehabilitation. She serves as the Lab Director of the Clinical Laboratory for Early Brain Injury Recovery at Burke Neurological Institute and holds the position of Associate Professor of Neuroscience at Weill Cornell Medicine. Her work focuses on improving motor function in individuals with neurological conditions, particularly cerebral palsy and spinal cord injuries, through innovative therapies and neuroimaging techniques. Education B.A. in Biology, Rice University M.S. in Neuroscience, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston Ph.D. in Neurophysiology, University of Kansas Medical Center M.S. in Biostatistics (Patient-Oriented Research), Columbia University Postdoctoral Fellowship, Columbia University Medical Center Research Interests Dr. Friel’s research explores the role of motor activity in neurorehabilitation, with a focus on: Intensive bimanual training and robotic-assisted therapies for cerebral palsy Non-invasive brain stimulation (e.g., TMS, tDCS) to enhance motor recovery Neural mechanisms of motor plasticity in pediatric and adult populations Development of outcome measures for rehabilitation engagement (e.g., ROME scale) Collaborations Her lab collaborates with institutions such as Teachers College, Columbia University, the City College of New York, and the National Institutes of Health. Key research methods include brain imaging (MRI, DTI), electroencephalography (EEG), and robotic-assisted rehabilitation technologies. Grant Support Her research is supported by grants focused on advancing therapies for neurological disorders, though specific funding details are not detailed in the provided text. Labs & Teams She leads the Friel Lab, a multidisciplinary team at Burke Neurological Institute, collaborating closely with the Prusky Lab and Hollis Lab to bridge clinical research, neurotechnology, and patient care.
Kai Håkon Christensen is a Professor at the Section for Meteorology and Oceanography (MetOs) at the University of Oslo , while also serving as a senior scientist at the Norwegian Meteorological Institute 's Division for Ocean and Ice. His work focuses on air-sea interaction, upper ocean dynamics, and wave-current interactions, with applications in Arctic marine systems, oil spill mitigation, and search-and-rescue operations. Research Interests : Air-sea interaction, oceanic transport processes, regional ocean modeling, and data assimilation. Teaching : Courses include GEO2320 – Oceanography and GEO4926 - Turbulent Boundary Layers . Collaborations : Extensive co-authorships with institutions like the Norwegian Meteorological Institute, University of Oslo, and international researchers. His recent publications highlight trends in wave dynamics , Arctic environmental challenges , and operational ocean modeling , often involving advanced numerical simulations and field measurements. Christensen contributes to marine safety, environmental monitoring, and climate modeling through projects like the Barents Sea prediction system and open-source instrumentation development.
Megan Reissman is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Dayton, School of Engineering. She is a full-time faculty member actively engaged in research and teaching in biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering. Education: Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern University M.Eng., Mechanical Engineering, Cornell University B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Cornell University Her research focuses on understanding and enhancing human movement, particularly in individuals with neurological impairments such as stroke or spinal cord injury. She employs experimental biomechanics, virtual reality, and wearable sensor technologies to assess and improve gait and balance. Her work seeks to develop devices that challenge abnormal movement patterns and deliver real-time visual feedback to promote motor learning. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in using virtual reality, exoskeletons, and auditory/visual feedback systems to study gait mechanics, motor control, and rehabilitation strategies across various populations, including post-stroke patients, spinal cord injury survivors, and healthy adults under load or hypoxic conditions. The integration of engineering principles with clinical rehabilitation is a consistent theme. Scientific Awards: Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network Faculty Fellow, University of Dayton, 2017 Sarah Baskin Award for Excellence in Rehabilitation Research, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, 2014 Searle Center Teaching Assistant Fellow, Northwestern University, 2012 Dr. Reissman advises student projects, particularly in capstone design and experimental mechanics. She teaches courses such as Engineering Experimentation (MEE 341), Engineering Analysis (MEE 460), and Multidisciplinary Design II (MEE 432L). While specific grant funding is not detailed, her research output and awards suggest active involvement in funded projects related to rehabilitation technology and engineering education. She is also engaged in advancing pedagogical methods, particularly in fostering entrepreneurial mindset through scaffolded learning in mechatronics. Her lab likely involves interdisciplinary collaboration with health sciences and rehabilitation specialists, utilizing facilities such as motion capture systems, instrumented treadmills, and wearable inertial sensors for data collection and analysis.
Louis M. Ferreira serves as an Associate Professor with a joint appointment in the Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering and the Department of Surgery at Western University's Faculty of Engineering. His research focuses on medical mechatronics with special interest in orthopaedic surgery and biomechanics of major joints. Dr. Ferreira aims to improve healthcare outcomes in orthopaedic surgeries by developing new technologies and methods to provide surgeons with advanced tools and information. Ph.D. (2011) P.Eng. (Professional Engineer) Dr. Ferreira's research interests center on improving surgical outcomes through technological innovation. His work spans several interconnected areas including medical mechatronics, surgical robotics, computer-guided procedures, and biomechanical measurement systems. He focuses particularly on upper extremity biomechanics and orthopaedic applications, developing in-vitro joint motion simulators, computer-navigated surgical systems, and implantable transducers for biomechanical measurements. His research follows a 'bench to bedside' philosophy to translate engineering solutions into clinical practice. Analysis of Dr. Ferreira's publication record reveals consistent research in orthopaedic biomechanics and surgical technology development. His recent work shows increasing focus on upper extremity applications, surgical simulation, and measurement techniques. The publications demonstrate evolution from foundational biomechanical studies toward more applied surgical technology development, with recent papers emphasizing practical clinical applications and validation studies. Dr. Ferreira actively mentors graduate students in both engineering and medical disciplines. His research is conducted through the Bioengineering Laboratory and Surgical Mechatronics Laboratory, which are member labs of the Hand and Upper Limb Centre at St. Joseph's Health Care in London, Ontario. These labs operate within the Lawson Health Research Institute, facilitating close collaboration between engineers and clinicians. Dr. Ferreira co-directs research laboratories that include the Bioengineering Laboratory and the Surgical Mechatronics Laboratory. Both labs are member facilities of the Hand and Upper Limb Centre (HULC) at St. Joseph's Health Care in London, Ontario, and are located within the Lawson Health Research Institute. His research group includes graduate and undergraduate students from Western University who work alongside surgical trainees from the HULC Residency Program, creating an interdisciplinary environment focused on translating engineering solutions into clinical practice.
Dr. Peter H. Gorman, MD, MS is Clinical Professor of Neurology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, where he also serves as Chief of the Division of Rehabilitation Medicine. He holds a secondary appointment in the Department of Physical Therapy and practices at the UM Rehabilitation & Orthopaedic Institute. Education: Sc.B. in Biomedical Engineering, Brown University (1979) M.S. in Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University (1982) M.D., The Ohio State University College of Medicine (1985) Internship & Residency in Neurology, University of Maryland Hospital (1985-1989) Fellowship in Rehabilitation & Electromyography, Case Western Reserve University/MetroHealth (1989-1991) Research Focus: Dr. Gorman’s scholarly work centers on spinal cord injury medicine, neurologic rehabilitation, and the application of advanced technologies such as robotic exoskeletons and functional electrical stimulation. His investigations range from multicenter randomized trials comparing aquatic and robotic therapy to pioneering studies on implanted neuroprostheses for hand grasp restoration in tetraplegia. Scientific Awards & Honors: Fellow, American Academy of Neurology (2007) Fellow, American Spinal Injury Association (2020) Multiple Golden Goniometer Teaching Awards (1996, 2004) Sidney & Elizabeth Licht Scientific Writing Award (2002) “Top Docs” & “Super Doctor” recognitions (2010-2013) Speedy Award, Paralyzed Veterans of America (2023) Grants & Clinical Trials: Since 2014 he has been Co-PI on a Department of Defense grant (SC130234) investigating exoskeletal-assisted walking for chronic SCI, examining mobility, bowel function, and cardio-metabolic outcomes. Clinical Practice: Dr. Gorman directs inpatient and outpatient spinal cord injury services, specializing in spasticity management via botulinum toxin and intrathecal baclofen pumps, and provides longitudinal care at UM Rehabilitation & Orthopaedic Institute.
Garth Johnson is a Professor at Newcastle University with a distinguished research career spanning over two decades (1994-2015) in biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering. His interdisciplinary work bridges mechanical engineering, orthopedics, and clinical rehabilitation, focusing on upper limb biomechanics, shoulder replacement systems, and gait analysis in both human and veterinary contexts. Johnson has established extensive collaborations with medical researchers and engineers across Newcastle University, contributing significantly to translational research in musculoskeletal health. Johnson's research interests encompass: Biomechanics of the shoulder and upper limb, particularly reverse anatomy shoulder replacements Rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology design Musculoskeletal modeling and computational simulation Clinical measurement of spasticity in neurological conditions Gait analysis in clinical and agricultural settings, including innovative pig locomotion studies Analysis of his publication trends (2008-2015) reveals three dominant research thrusts: (1) biomechanical evaluation of reverse shoulder arthroplasty including implant design comparisons, scapular adaptation, and joint contact forces; (2) development of standardized motion analysis protocols for upper-extremity kinematics; and (3) veterinary biomechanics applications using pig models to study lameness, flooring effects, and motion capture validation. His work consistently integrates engineering principles with clinical needs, demonstrating strong translational impact. No scientific awards or honors were documented in the provided publication records. Johnson's collaborative approach is evident through his extensive co-authorship network including Dr. Andreas Kontaxis, Dr. Farshid Amirabdollahian, Professor Michael Barnes, and Dr. Anand Pandyan across medical and engineering disciplines. While specific grant details and student supervision records are not extractable from the publication list, his involvement in major projects like the GENTLE/S robot-mediated stroke therapy system indicates substantial research leadership. His work frequently appears in specialized biomechanics and rehabilitation journals, reflecting deep engagement with both engineering and clinical communities.
Michael D Ellis is a Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences at the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, where he conducts pioneering research at the intersection of neuroscience, biomechanics, and rehabilitation engineering to advance stroke recovery interventions. His research program focuses on quantifying motor impairments in chronic stroke survivors, particularly flexion synergy and loss of independent joint control in the upper extremity. He employs robotic systems (including the ACT3D platform), shear wave ultrasound elastography , and EMG-based pattern recognition to develop objective assessment tools and targeted therapies. A hallmark of his work is the investigation of progressive abduction loading as a mechanism to overcome gravity-induced discoordination, with significant contributions to understanding the biomechanical basis of elbow contracture and spasticity. Analysis of his 2019-2024 publications reveals three dominant research trajectories: (1) Development of mechatronic evaluation systems for inpatient stroke assessment with established test-retest reliability; (2) Cross-validation of biomechanical measures (e.g., ultrasound elastography as proxy for passive torque); (3) Neuroengineering applications using machine learning to decode movement intent for robotic rehabilitation. His work consistently bridges laboratory findings to clinical practice through quantitative metrics that differentiate impairment subtypes.
An H Do, MD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine . His research focuses on advanced neurotechnologies for restoring motor and sensory functions post-injury. Academic Affiliation: UCI School of Medicine, Department of Neurology Key Research Areas: Brain-Computer Interfaces, Neurorehabilitation, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke Recovery, Implantable Neuroprosthetics Research Interests Dr. Do develops bi-directional brain-computer interfaces (BD-BCIs) that enable cortical control of robotic exoskeletons while delivering sensory feedback via direct cortical stimulation. His work emphasizes fully implantable systems, high-gamma signal processing, and motor recovery post-stroke or spinal cord injury. Current studies explore home-based rehabilitation using wearable grip sensors and adaptive gaming systems. Article Trends His publications highlight advancements in Bi-directional neural interfaces for motor-sensory restoration High-density electrocorticography (ECoG) for improved decoding accuracy Charge-balanced cortical stimulation safety protocols Home rehabilitation systems with quantitative compliance analysis Implantable BCI designs for clinical translation
Dr. Ghaith Androwis is an Adjunct Instructor in Bio-Medical Engineering at NJIT, specializing in rehabilitation robotics and neurorehabilitation technologies. His research focuses on developing and evaluating robotic exoskeletons, myoelectric orthotics, and novel therapy tools for spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy rehabilitation. Current investigations include deep reinforcement learning for exoskeleton control, wearable sensor systems for motor recovery assessment, and vestibular stimulation techniques to enhance rehabilitation outcomes. He maintains clinical research partnerships with rehabilitation hospitals and conducts trials on robotic gait training and upper extremity functional recovery.
A. García Rudolph is an affiliated researcher at the Guttmann Institute, part of the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC). His work focuses on neurorehabilitation, with a particular emphasis on spinal cord injury, stroke recovery, and cognitive rehabilitation. He holds a Doctoral degree in 2016 under the guidance of Karina Gibert Oliveras. His research spans clinical-functional analysis, robotic applications in rehabilitation, and gender perspectives in neurological care. Key Affiliation: Guttmann Institute Academic Focus: Neurological Rehabilitation, Stroke Management, Spinal Cord Injury Recent studies include optimizing hospital stays for spinal cord injury patients and analyzing interindividual variability in visuospatial neglect. Collaborations with institutions like the Catholic University of Valencia and Autonomous University of Barcelona highlight interdisciplinary engagement.
Suwarna Anand, MD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). She holds dual roles as Program Director of the Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship and Director of the Anesthesia Transplant Program. Her clinical expertise spans cardiothoracic anesthesia, transplant surgery, and advanced perioperative echocardiography. Dr. Anand is a board-certified Transesophageal Echocardiographer and played a pivotal role in establishing UMMC’s liver transplant program. Education: MBBS from Dr. Vaishampayan Memorial Medical College (1996), Anesthesiology residency and fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine (2017) and Henry Ford Hospital (2005). She has certifications in Adult Cardiac Anesthesiology, Advanced TEE, and perioperative glycemic control. Research interests focus on perioperative glycemic management, TEE-guided interventions, and medical education. Her work bridges clinical care and innovation, including anesthetic strategies for SGLT-2i/GLP-1 agonist patients and robotic surgery in LVAD recipients. She has authored over 30 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters on topics like diabetic perioperative care and neuromuscular complications. Awards include Trailblazer Teaching Award (2023) and multiple Teacher of the Year honors. She chairs UMMC’s Perioperative Normothermia and Antibiotic Committees, and serves on national committees for the ASA and SCA. Her leadership spans 20+ institutional committees, emphasizing quality improvement and resident/fellow training. Teaching contributions include directing cardiothoracic anesthesia fellowships, mentoring 10+ residents annually, and lecturing on advanced topics like mechanical circulatory support. She leads simulation-based training for double-lumen tube placement and TEE-guided procedures. Community involvement includes diabetes advocacy through Mississippi’s Walk for Diabetes and food insecurity initiatives with the Mississippi Food Network.
Johanne Higgins is a Full Professor in the Occupational Therapy program at the School of Rehabilitation, University of Montreal. She is actively affiliated with the Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Rehabilitation (CRIR) of Metropolitan Montreal and the University Institute for Rehabilitation in Physical Disabilities of the CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, where she conducts cutting-edge research in neurorehabilitation and assistive technologies. B.Sc. in Occupational Therapy, Laval University (1995) M.Sc. in Rehabilitation Science, McGill University (1998) Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Science, McGill University (2008) Postdoctoral Training, Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University (2009) Her research focuses on the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying upper limb recovery after stroke, chronic pain in older adults, and the development of innovative rehabilitation tools such as robotic gloves and bimanual exercisers. She utilizes non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like transcranial direct current stimulation and integrates virtual environments and telerehabilitation with exergames to enhance patient engagement and outcomes. Her work emphasizes user-centered design and statistical validation of assessment tools. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong trend toward interdisciplinary rehabilitation research, combining engineering, neuroscience, and clinical practice. Her work spans robotic and virtual rehabilitation, telerehabilitation, sensory feedback integration, and outcome measure development, with a consistent focus on stroke recovery and upper limb function. She is deeply involved in translating research into practical, patient-centered technologies. Johanne Higgins has not been explicitly mentioned as receiving scientific awards in the provided text. She is actively involved in supervising research and mentoring students, though specific names are not listed. Her research is supported by ongoing projects involving transcranial stimulation, robotic devices, and telerehabilitation systems, indicating active grant funding and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. She contributes to the advancement of rehabilitation science through methodological rigor and innovation in assessment and intervention. Johanne Higgins conducts her research within the Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Rehabilitation (CRIR), a leading hub for rehabilitation innovation in Montreal. Her work involves collaboration with engineers, clinicians, and scientists to develop and validate rehabilitation technologies. Her lab focuses on integrating robotics, virtual reality, and non-invasive brain stimulation to optimize hand and upper limb recovery in stroke survivors.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Goksen Goksenoglu serves in the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation at Yeditepe University Faculty of Medicine, where she conducts clinical research and teaching in rehabilitation medicine. Her academic credentials include: Medical Degree (2003-2009) from Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine Specialization in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation (2010-2014) from Health Sciences University Istanbul Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Health Practice and Research Center; thesis on comorbidities in ankylosing spondylitis Dr. Goksenoglu's research focuses on neurological rehabilitation (Parkinson's disease gait analysis, stroke recovery, spinal cord injury), musculoskeletal disorders (osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, myofascial pain), and geriatric rehabilitation . Her work frequently examines comorbidity patterns, functional outcomes, and innovative interventions like robotic gait training and kinesio taping, with particular attention to neuropathic pain assessment and vitamin D deficiency in neurological populations. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary rehabilitation research, especially in pain management across neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. Her studies demonstrate methodological rigor through randomized controlled trials and observational designs, contributing significantly to evidence-based practice in physical therapy. She actively participates in academic discourse through conference presentations at national venues including the Turkish Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Congress and International Neurology and Rehabilitation Meetings. Dr. Goksenoglu supervises graduate theses in rehabilitation science and collaborates with plastic surgery and neurology teams for complex rehabilitation cases. Her clinical work at Yeditepe University Hospital integrates research findings into patient care, particularly for spinal cord injury and Parkinson's disease management.
