Description of Research Expertise

My research focus is on the characteristics and limits of functional neuroplasticity in the adult human brain. I investigate how the brain reorganizes itself in response to injury, and whether or not it is possible to enhance the brain’s potential for reorganization in order to speed rehabilitation using noninvasive electrical or magnetic brain stimulation. A second area of interest for me is on the use of noninvasive brain stimulation to elucidate and enhance mechanisms of cognition in healthy individuals, and the biological, social, and ethical implications of neural enhancement.

Description of Other Expertise

I am deeply interested in medical education. I am heavily involved in medical student education in Neurology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and I am the faculty director of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine Pipeline Program, multi-tiered neuroscience education program for inner-city high schools in Philadelphia.

Description of Itmat Expertise

Noninvasive brain stimulation
Neuroplasticity following brain injury
Multisensory integration