A fundamental understanding of the principles underlying large-scale recording systems like imaging technologies, from signal sensitivity to digitization and information reconstruction, are at the core of my research platform. It enables development, redesign and modeling of the systems we measure.

The brain orchestrates vital functions ranging in complexity, from distilling sensory input, executing motor output, and processing cognitive information. The brain is composed of a very diverse population of cells with specialized properties, of which neurons are just one type of cell. Neurons themselves are also incredibly diverse. A fundamental neurophysiological understanding of constituents of brain tissue (neurons and other supporting cells, such as glia and blood vessels) is necessary to distinguish between normal brain function and dysfunction. It is also essential in the engineering of systems and devices that intend to record, manipulate or interface with the brain.

Pittsburgh is Medicine. Pittsburgh is Brain. Pittsburgh is Neural Engineering. These are areas our local institutions have focused on and devote tremendous resources. Pittsburgh is also many more things. As a non-Pittsburgh native I have come to find my place here outside of work as well. Pittsburgh is coffee. Pittsburgh is biking. Pittsburgh is food. Pittsburgh is beer. Pittsburgh is donuts!

Fundamentals, depth, verification strategies. These are at the core of my research approach. I believe and participate in hands-on training, encourage end-to-end experimentation, and the open discussion of research possibilities and ideas. I use modeling and simulation of the systems we investigate to facilitate a deeper understanding and quantitative testing of our research questions.