Associate Professor
Harrington Department of Bioengineering
Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering

Muthuswamy's research interests are in the areas of Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for Neural communication, and plasticity in the central nervous system. The Engineering and Neuroscience research efforts in his lab are primarily directed towards understanding and treating brain dysfunction. However, our understanding of brain function and dysfunction is severely limited by the lack of technology that will reliably communicate with the cells in the brain for monitoring and intervention. Therefore, one of his main research interests is in the development of multi-functional Neural Prosthesis using MEMS (Micro-Electromechanical Systems) technologies for precise tracking, communication, stimulation and control of neuronal function and dysfunction. Using these novel technologies in models of brain injury, Muthuswamy is interested in understanding the neurochemical and neuroelectrical dynamics that determine neurological outcome and the neuroprotective role of specific genes. There is a great potential for developing exciting new technology for enhancing repair and plasticity mechanisms in the brain after injury that will improve neurological outcomes and greatly enhance quality of lives. Projects are funded by the NIH, the Whitaker foundation, Arizona Biomedical Research foundation and the DARPA.

Expertise

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for Neural communication multi-functional Neural Prosthesis using MEMS (Micro-Electromechanical Systems)

Education

Ph.D., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
M.S., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
B. Tech., Indian Institute of Technology (India)