One funded Ph.D. assistantship starting in Fall 2024 is available in the Motor Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Lab (MoNeL) in the Department of Health and Human Performance at the University of Houston.
The MoNeL (https://www.monelab.net/) aims at 1) understanding neurophysiological mechanisms underlying impaired motor control and learning in healthy older adults and diseased humans (e.g., stroke, spinal cord injury, & cerebral palsy) and 2) developing novel rehabilitation approaches to improve functional motor control with emphasis on walking and balance in those populations. Our research combines behavioral and neurophysiological data analysis techniques with data collection methods including behavioral measures of force control and movement, wireless high-density electromyography (EMG), and high-density electroencephalography (EEG). Our lab equips a specialized treadmill that utilizes the platform’s movement in a medial/lateral and forward/backward direction while the patient is standing, walking or running allowing customized postural control practice in the specific gait phase. A biphasic constant current stimulator, a pressure sensitive walkway, an instrumented treadmill, and a Biodex isokinetic system are also quipped.
The MoNeL is in the Center for Neuromotor and Biomechanics Research (https://hhp.uh.edu/cnbr/) within the Department of Health and Human Performance. The research projects are conducted through the collaborative effort of neuroscientists, clinicians, and engineers. The graduate training opportunity provides ample research experience focused on motor control and learning, biomechanics, neurological diseases, rehabilitation, and neurophysiology.
The ideal candidate will have 1) a bachelor's or master’s degree in Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, Engineering, Physics, Neuroscience, or a related area; 2) interest in Motor Neuroscience, Neuromuscular Physiology, or Neurorehabilitation; 3) programming proficiency (MATLAB or LabVIEW); and 4) competency in written and spoken English.
This position will be funded through a graduate teaching assistantship. There is the potential for additional fellowships to supplement the stipend for qualified candidates. Interested individuals should send 1) a summary of research interests and 2) CV to Dr. Seoung Hoon Park (shpark5@uh.edu). Application deadline is January 15, 2024.