Computational Neurorehabilitation and Rehabilitation Robotics: mathematical models of motor recovery based on machine learning and control theory and model-based rehabilitation strategies

Supervisor: Jun Izawa (Informatics, University of Tsukuba,)
Co-Supervisor: Nicolas Schweighofer (University of Southern California, University of Tsukuba)

In this PhD, the student will develop 1) mathematical models of motor recovery based on machine learning and control theory and 2) model-based rehabilitation strategies. The strategies will be implemented in a rehabilitation robotic system and will be tested on healthy subjects as well as on stroke patients. Dr. Izawa has pioneered the use of the robotic manipulandum system and motor control experiments to tackle reward-based motor learning mechanism in human. Dr. Schweighofer has pioneered the field of computational neurorehabilitation, in which computational neuroscience is used to understand the mechanism of motor recovery in patients with neurologic injuries. The PhD will be conducted mainly in the laboratory at the University of Tsukuba (45min from Tokyo), but the student is expected to conduct a part of the project at the University of Southern California.

To apply online, visit http://www.emp.tsukuba.ac.jp/english/examination/

If you have questions or would like further information about the project, we encourage you to contact the supervisors directly before making your formal application.