Overview
Our research employs engineering approaches to understand and control neural function. We work on fundamental questions and applied development in electrical stimulation of the nervous system to restore function to individuals with neurological impairment or injury.
Current projects include:
• understanding the mechanisms of and developing advanced approaches to deep brain stimulation to treat movement disorders,
• developing novel approaches to peripheral nerve electrical stimulation for restoration of bladder function,
• understanding the mechanisms of and developing advanced approaches to spinal cord stimulation to treat chronic pain,
• understanding and controlling the cellular effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation, and
• design of novel electrodes and waveforms for selective stimulation of the nervous system.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Recent Publications
Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve improves amyloid pathology in delirium superimposed on dementia.
Journal Article Bioelectron Med · January 16, 2026 BACKGROUND: Delirium and delirium superimposed on dementia (DSD) are common complications affecting patients suffering from ongoing neurodegenerative pathologies. Peripheral surgical trauma can trigger neuroinflammation and ensuing DSD via mechanisms that ... Full text Link to item CiteEffect of frequency on dual target deep brain stimulation.
Journal Article Clin Neurophysiol · January 2026 BACKGROUND: Deep brain stimulation reduces the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD). Dual target deep brain stimulation (DT DBS) may better reduce symptoms and minimize side effects than single target, but the optimal parameters of DT DBS are unknown ... Full text Link to item CiteMechanisms mediating dynamic changes in neural responses during deep brain stimulation.
Journal Article Brain Stimul · 2026 BACKGROUND: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) to treat Parkinson's disease (PD) generates local evoked potentials (DLEPs). DLEPs reflect neural activation by DBS, but the mechanisms underlying the dynamic changes in DLEPs during ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Neurobiology Training Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2024 - 2029Duke KURe Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases · 2013 - 2028Optimized Electrical Block of Peripheral Nerves
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2023 - 2027View All Grants