Catherine Fabian is an Associate Clinical Professor and Assistant Director & Coordinator of Clinical Education for Audiology at the School of Communication , Northwestern University . She specializes in assessing and rehabilitating auditory system disorders for both adults and children. Education AuD, Northwestern University BA, Linguistics (Language and the Brain), University of California, San Diego Her research and clinical work focus on auditory processing disorders, hearing conservation, tinnitus management, and vestibular dysfunction. She also contributes to Northwestern’s Hearing Conservation Program, emphasizing noise exposure prevention for staff. Dr. Fabian’s expertise spans auditory training, device fitting, and multidisciplinary research on auditory and vestibular impairments post-brain injury. She played a key role in developing CAPD assessment programs and directing Universal Newborn Hearing Screening initiatives.
Martha Bagnall, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Her research focuses on neural circuits involved in postural control and motor coordination, primarily using zebrafish as a model organism. She leads the Bagnall Lab, which investigates how sensory information about orientation and movement drives appropriate body movements to adjust posture. Education: PhD in Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego (2002-2008) BS in Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT (1996-2000) Dr. Bagnall's research centers on understanding how the brain processes vestibular information to maintain posture and coordinate movement. Her lab studies the vestibulospinal system of larval zebrafish to determine how sensory signals about head orientation are mapped onto spinal circuitry to drive appropriate behaviors. A key area of investigation is how locomotor planning influences vestibular circuits, with particular interest in cerebellar input to vestibular neurons. Her work takes advantage of the transparency of larval zebrafish to dynamically observe neural development and function. Analysis of Dr. Bagnall's recent publications reveals a strong focus on spinal interneuron diversity and connectivity in motor control. Her research has systematically mapped how different spinal neuron types (V1, V2b, etc.) connect with motor and sensory targets to coordinate locomotion at different speeds. There is a clear progression from basic circuit mapping to understanding how developmental processes shape these circuits, with recent work exploring clonal relationships and Notch signaling in spinal neuron differentiation. Her work bridges fundamental neuroscience with potential applications for understanding vestibular pathologies in humans. Scientific Awards: McKnight Scholar Award (2017) Pew Scholar (2016) Sloan Award (2016) K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award, NIDCD, NIH (2012) NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (2004-2007) Dr. Bagnall has secured significant research funding, including a $1.9 million R01 grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke to map neuronal connections in the zebrafish spinal cord. This represents her second R01 grant as a principal investigator. Her research employs a multidisciplinary approach combining electrophysiology, imaging, genetic manipulation, optogenetics, and behavioral analysis. The lab's work on V1 neurons revealed that these inhibitory interneurons form location-dependent connections - interfacing with motor neurons near their cell bodies while synapsing on sensory cells further up the spinal cord. The Bagnall Lab is part of the Neurogenetics & Transcriptomics and Axon Injury & Repair research groups at Washington University. Her team collaborates with the Solnica-Krezel lab to investigate later onset of vestibular dysfunction, taking advantage of large-scale genetic screens to identify gene candidates involved in neurodegeneration. The lab's research has demonstrated high homology between the vestibulospinal postural system of fish and mammals, suggesting translational relevance of their findings.
Linda B. Horn, PT, DScPT, MHS is an Assistant Professor and Director for Academic Affairs in the DPT Program at the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine's Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science. Previously an adjunct instructor for 17 years, she now holds a full-time position with clinical expertise spanning acute care, outpatient, and home settings. Education: BS in Physical Therapy, University of Maryland Baltimore (1984) Master of Health Science, University of Indianapolis Krannert School of Physical Therapy (2003) Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy, University of Maryland Baltimore (2007) Research Focus: Her work centers on neurological and geriatric rehabilitation, specifically: vestibular dysfunction quantification, fall risk mitigation in older adults, interprofessional education models, and post-stroke motor recovery. She integrates clinical neurophysiology with rehabilitation methodologies to develop evidence-based interventions for balance disorders. Clinical Certifications: Neurologic Certified Specialist (ABPTS, 1993; recertified 2003/2013) Geriatric Certified Specialist (ABPTS, 2015)
Dr. Isabelle Gagnon is a Senior Scientist at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) and a Professor at the School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University. She is affiliated with the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine at McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), contributing to the Child Health and Human Development Program. Senior Scientist, RI-MUHC Professor, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University Department of Pediatrics, MUHC Her research focuses on pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussion , with emphasis on functional outcomes, rehabilitation interventions, and healthcare system impacts. Key domains include: Balanced assessment of motor and psychosocial domains Integration of imaging and virtual reality technologies Development of innovative rehabilitation approaches for slow recoverers Analysis of emergency department service organization on patient outcomes Recent publications (2024-2025) address quality indicators for trauma care , vestibulo-ocular reflex dynamics , direct-access physiotherapy models , and social determinants of health disparities . Her work spans clinical practice guidelines , EEG-based concussion biomarkers , and virtual pedestrian collision avoidance paradigms . Dr. Gagnon collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to advance pediatric concussion management , focusing on return-to-activity protocols and neurological data integration . She emphasizes patient-centered outcomes and healthcare accessibility .
John V. Brigande is an Associate Professor at the Oregon Hearing Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University. He began his academic career at Boston College where he earned his B.S. (1987), M.S. (1991), and Ph.D. (1997) in neuroscience and developmental neurobiology. His postdoctoral training included developmental genetics at the University of Texas at Austin (1998) and auditory development at Purdue University (2003). He joined the Oregon Hearing Research Center as an Assistant Professor in 2003 and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2009. Since 2011, he has been a key contributor to the Hearing Health Foundation's Hearing Restoration Project. Education: B.S., Boston College, 1987 M.S., Boston College, 1991 Ph.D., Boston College, 1997 Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Texas at Austin, 1998 Postdoctoral Fellowship, Purdue University, 2003 Brigande's research focuses on mammalian inner ear development , employing experimental embryology, surgical techniques, and gene transfer methods to study developmental processes in vivo. His lab investigates cell fate decisions in otic progenitors using retroviral lineage analysis and develops fetal gene/drug therapies for congenital deafness. A major focus is translating developmental mechanisms into gene and cell therapies for hearing loss and balance disorders, with particular emphasis on hair cell regeneration strategies. His publications demonstrate a strong focus on translational approaches to hearing restoration , including gene therapy (CRISPR/Cas9, AAV vectors), antisense oligonucleotides for congenital disorders, and optimization of diagnostic techniques. Recent work explores primate models of Usher syndrome, fetal pharmacotherapy, and mitochondrial genetics, reflecting interdisciplinary collaboration across genetics, audiology, and developmental biology. Brigande leads a research laboratory within the Hearing Health Foundation's Hearing Restoration Project consortium, focused on developing mouse model systems to validate hair cell regeneration candidates. The lab utilizes techniques including transuterine microinjection, in vivo electroporation, and single-cell transcriptomics to advance therapeutic strategies for inner ear disorders.
Anthony Cacace is Professor of Audiology in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Wayne State University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Formerly tenured faculty at Albany Medical College in Surgery and Neurology, he directed clinical programs including the Audiology Department and Hearing Rehabilitation Center. His expertise spans psychoacoustics, electrophysiology, vestibular assessment, and neuroimaging techniques for tinnitus and auditory processing disorders. Dr. Cacace's educational background includes: B.S. in Speech Pathology and Audiology, State University of New York (1974) M.S. in Audiology, Syracuse University (1975) Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders/Audiology, Syracuse University (1988) Post Doctoral Fellowship in Neurophysiology, Wadsworth Center (1987) His research focuses on Central Auditory Processing Disorder, tinnitus mechanisms, and noise-induced vestibular dysfunction using TMS, MRI, and electrophysiological methods. Current work investigates blast injury consequences in veterans through VA/DoD-funded projects. Recent publications reveal strong emphasis on tinnitus neuroimaging, auditory processing disorder diagnostics, and vestibular-blast injury relationships. His work integrates diffusion tensor imaging, nanotheranostics, and electrophysiological biomarkers to advance diagnostic and therapeutic frameworks. Scientific recognition includes: ASHA Fellowship (1997) American Academy of Audiology Fellowship (1991) As primary capstone supervisor, Dr. Cacace mentors graduate students while leading multi-institutional research: VA Merit Awards ($1.5M+) on tinnitus and vestibular blast injuries NIH R21 nanotheranostics grant ($141k) Wayne State Omnibus Grants for vestibular/gait equipment He collaborates with Wayne State's Neurosciences Institute, VA Medical Center, and University of Michigan teams studying veteran auditory-vestibular health.
Kathleen E. Cullen is the Raj and Neera Singh Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, where she is a faculty member in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. Her research is embedded within the School of Medicine and spans interdisciplinary domains in neuroscience and biomedical innovation. Her research interests lie at the intersection of systems, cognitive, and computational neuroscience. Dr. Cullen investigates how the brain integrates vestibular, visual, proprioceptive, and motor signals to maintain balance, posture, and perceptual stability during everyday motion. Her lab employs advanced neurophysiological techniques, virtual reality, and computational modeling to understand neural representations of self-motion. The recent publications and research focus of her lab indicate strong trends in neural encoding of self-motion, predictive coding mechanisms, and the role of the cerebellum in generating internal models for motor control and perception. Her work bridges fundamental neuroscience with clinical applications in vestibular disorders. The Raj and Neera Singh Professor of Biomedical Engineering Dr. Cullen advises graduate students through the Biomedical Engineering Program and the Neuroscience Training Program at Johns Hopkins. Her research is supported by interdisciplinary grants focused on neural prosthetics, brain-computer interfaces, and rehabilitation strategies for vestibular dysfunction. She leads the Sensorimotor Neuroscience Laboratory (SNNL), where her team develops biomimetic algorithms for vestibular implants and studies neural compensation following sensory loss. Her laboratory, the Sensorimotor Neuroscience Laboratory (SNNL), integrates molecular, genetic, and high-density neuronal recording techniques to bridge genes, circuits, and behavior. The lab is actively involved in developing transformative approaches for both basic research and clinical translation in vestibular and motor disorders.
Jacob I. McPherson, PT, DPT, PhD, is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at the University at Buffalo, affiliated with the School of Public Health and Health Professions. He is a member of the UB Concussion Management and Research Center and holds board certification in neurologic physical therapy. His research focuses on vestibular dysfunction and clinical management of concussion, with particular emphasis on neurotrophic factors in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). McPherson has over a decade of clinical experience in outpatient neurologic and vestibular rehabilitation, complementing his academic roles. Education: Doctor of Physical Therapy (2011), University at Buffalo PhD in Rehabilitation Science (2022), University at Buffalo Research Interests: Vestibular assessment and treatment protocols Multidisciplinary approaches to concussion management Neurotrophic factors in mTBI pathophysiology Telemedicine applications for concussion evaluation Teaching: Focuses on neuromuscular rehabilitation, vestibular dysfunction management, and critical analysis of patient care through courses like PT 504 (Medical Sciences II), PT 603/604 (Neuromuscular Physical Therapy), and PT 703 (Critical Analysis in Patient Care). Key Contributions: Developed a telehealth examination protocol for sport-related concussion and authored guidelines for pediatric concussion service delivery. His work emphasizes early cervical impairment management to improve recovery outcomes. Awards: Board Certification in Neurologic Physical Therapy (American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties).
Owen White serves as an Adjunct Clinical Professor in the Department of Neuroscience within the Faculty of Medicine at Monash University. His academic profile demonstrates a long-standing commitment to advancing our understanding of the ocular motor system and its relationship to neurocognitive processes in both normal and dysfunctional states. Dr. White's educational background is impressive, with an MB.BS from the University of Melbourne (1973), an M.Sc in Neuroscience from the University of Toronto focusing on vestibulo-ocular reflex in Parkinson's Disease (1982), an MD from the University of Melbourne on eye movements in Parkinson's Disease (1985), and a PhD from Australian National University on vestibular projections to thalamus and cortex in cat and monkey (1989). His research program combines sophisticated approaches including ocular motor measurements, neuropsychological assessments, and neuroimaging techniques to explore dysfunction in human lesion and system disorders. A primary goal of his work is establishing the clinical utility of ocular motor measures, with a focus on developing methods that can sensitively measure disease severity, evaluate treatment efficacy, and advance understanding of neurobiological bases of phenotypically similar conditions. Recent publications demonstrate active research in neuro-ophthalmology, multiple sclerosis, visual snow syndrome, and intracranial hypertension, with a clear trend toward translating basic research into clinical applications. His work spans both fundamental neuroscience and direct clinical applications, particularly in neurological disorders affecting vision and motor control. Dr. White has secured significant research funding through multiple projects including assessment of BioEye eye tracking technology for concussion management in athletes, elucidating pathophysiological signatures of visual snow, ocular motor laboratory support, and research on novel exercise forms for Parkinsonism. He has also received industry support from Merck Serono Australia and BioEye Ltd for his research initiatives. His laboratory appears to be part of the Fielding-White research group at Monash University, focusing on ocular processing research with particular attention to clinical applications. The group's work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing through its focus on neurological disorders and diagnostic methodologies.
Chang Yaramothu is an Assistant Professor at the School of Applied Engineering and Technology at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). His research specializes in developing diagnostic systems for concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI), with translational applications in virtual reality therapeutics. He co-founded a biotech startup leveraging VR technology prior to joining NJIT. Education Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering - NJIT & Rutgers Biomedical & Health Sciences (2017) M.S. in Biomedical Engineering - NJIT (2014) B.S. in Biomedical Engineering - NJIT (2013) Research Focus Dr. Yaramothu's work integrates biomedical instrumentation , neuro-optometry , and virtual reality to address concussion diagnostics. Primary research streams include: oculomotor/vestibular function quantification, convergence insufficiency mechanisms, vision-related quality of life metrics, and neuroimaging correlates of mTBI. His lab develops clinically deployable tools like the MoVES protocol and VisQuaL-T survey. Publication Trends Recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on objective biomarker discovery for concussion (60% of articles), particularly through vergence eye movement analysis and vestibular endurance protocols. Secondary focus includes VR therapeutic applications (20%) and normative data frameworks for clinical assessments. Methodologically, works blend randomized trials, instrument validation studies, and computational modeling. Awards & Honors 2020 Digi-Tech Innovator (NJBiz Magazine) 2020 Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry Laboratory & Resources Leads the Sensory and Quantitative Research Laboratory (SQRL) specializing in neuro-visual instrumentation. Resources include eye-tracking systems, VR platforms, and clinical assessment toolboxes for oculomotor/vestibular function analysis.
Dr Lisa Bunn is an Associate Professor of Neurological Rehabilitation at the University of Plymouth, affiliated with the School of Health Professions (Faculty of Health). She holds leadership roles including Associate Head of School for Postgraduate Study, Doctoral College Coordinator, and Programme Lead for the MSc in Clinical Research. A HCPC-registered physiotherapist, her clinical-academic career bridges neurological rehabilitation research and clinical practice. She chairs the Faculty of Health's Ethics and Integrity Committee and reviews NIHR Health Technology Assessment applications. Her research focuses on neurophysiology of movement, translational clinical neuroscience, and rare neurological conditions like ataxia telangiectasia. She co-leads the Brain Research and Imaging Centre’s (BRIC) Sensorimotor Control Lab and collaborates internationally on projects like the EUROSCA initiative. Dr Bunn’s research spans pathophysiology-driven therapies, clinical trial design, and innovative uses of technology such as smartphone-based assessments for MS and gait analysis. She has pioneered studies on ataxia in children post-posterior fossa tumor resection, dual-task training for Parkinson’s disease, and balance impairments in Down Syndrome. Professional contributions include advisory roles with Action for AT, NICE guideline development, and Health Education England’s NIHR regional committee. She has supervised 27 MSc and multiple PhD candidates, including international students, and teaches across postgraduate programs like the MSc in Neurological Rehabilitation and Advanced Professional Practice. Her awards include the Royal Society of Medicine’s Gordon Holme Prize and student accolades for innovative teaching. Current projects include a £223k NIHR-funded study (ASPECT) on pediatric ataxia post-surgery and the ATeam initiative to develop healthcare guidance for children with ataxia-telangiectasia. Her work emphasizes global health equity through international curriculum development and translational research.
Kyle Petit is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology & Athletic Training at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. He holds a PhD from Michigan State University and has dedicated his career to advancing understanding of sport-related concussions. His research focuses on evaluation techniques, treatment strategies, and the role of physical activity in post-concussion recovery. Education : BS, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh MS, Illinois State University PhD, Michigan State University Research Interests : Dr. Petit's work explores sensorimotor assessment tools, vestibular/ocular motor outcomes, and factors influencing recovery (e.g., physical activity, cognitive rest). He investigates sex differences in concussion incidence and the impact of caffeine on neurocognitive testing. His research bridges clinical practice with evidence-based strategies for athlete safety and recovery. Publications : His research portfolio includes studies on novel concussion evaluation devices, recovery trends, and athlete reporting behaviors. Key themes include diagnostic tool validation, post-concussion physical activity impacts, and policy development for sport safety. Awards & Grants : No scientific awards or grants listed in provided materials. Advising & Mentorship : Dr. Petit emphasizes student growth and leadership in athletic training. He currently lists no formal advisees in available records.
Douglas M. Hildrew, MD, is an Assistant Professor of Surgery (Otolaryngology) at Yale School of Medicine. He serves as Medical Director of the Yale Hearing and Balance Program and specializes in Otology, Neurotology, and Skull Base Surgery. Dr. Hildrew treats both adult and pediatric patients with conditions including cochlear implantation, facial nerve disorders, and chronic ear diseases. MD from State University of New York (2010) Residency at Tulane University School of Medicine (2015) Advanced fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (2017) His research focuses include telemedicine applications in otolaryngology , tinnitus management , and auditory brainstem implants . Recent publications examine topics in vestibular schwannoma treatment and endoscopic surgical techniques. Board Certified by American Board of Otolaryngology Clinical Director, Cochlear Implant Program Member of multiple professional societies Scientific awards include the Surgery Service Line Award (2019) and James Harrill Resident Research Award (2013). Dr. Hildrew's clinical work addresses hearing restoration through innovative endoscopic approaches.
Sevgi ÖZDİNÇ is an Assistant Professor at the Prosthetics and Orthotics Department of Trakya University's Vocational School of Health Services. She holds a doctoral degree in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation from Trakya University (1998). Her academic journey includes master's degrees in Anatomy (1992) and Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation (1987). She has been affiliated with the university since at least 2006 when she assumed her current academic rank. Her research focuses on musculoskeletal health, ergonomics, and rehabilitation strategies. Key areas include the biomechanical effects of footwear, musculoskeletal disorders in academic and occupational settings, and the impact of exercise programs on aging populations. She has also explored topics such as vestibular function, ballet training effects on foot development, and mental health issues among students. Her publications span from 1995 to 2021, with recent works emphasizing gait analysis, low back pain management, and telehealth applications. Notable studies include evaluations of Masai Barefoot Technology footwear and ergonomic interventions for pregnancy-related pain. She has contributed to over 20 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, often addressing interdisciplinary themes like rehabilitation engineering and preventive medicine. Dr. ÖZDİNÇ has no listed academic awards but has maintained active involvement in university education and clinical research. Her work integrates clinical practice with community health initiatives, particularly in geriatric and pediatric populations. She has advised no formally listed students but has engaged in collaborative research projects with colleagues in physical therapy and health sciences.
Jeffrey M. Hoder is an Associate Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Duke University, with a faculty appointment in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and affiliation with the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences . His primary responsibilities include directing student affairs, accommodations, and advising, alongside teaching foundational courses in adult neurologic rehabilitation and health disparities . D.P.T., University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (2004) Clinical Specialist Board Certification in Neurology, American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (2003, recertified 2013, 2024) Research Focus : Dr. Hoder specializes in gait and balance disorders , particularly in movement disorders and central vestibular dysfunction . Recent publications explore treadmill training for stroke recovery, Parkinson's disease interventions, and novel approaches to vestibular rehabilitation. His work emphasizes clinical outcome measures and evidence-based practice . Key Trends in Publications : Systematic reviews on balance interventions, pilot studies for Parkinson's disease management, and clinical tools for neurological assessment. Collaborations span multidisciplinary fields including emergency medicine , pharmacology , and neurodegenerative disease research.
