Targeted Plasticity Workshop 2024

This Workshop has already been held. Please check back for future offerings.

PRE-SfN WORKSHOP
Neurotechnologies for Targeted Plasticity:
A Practical Introduction to H-Reflex Conditioning & Paired Associative Stimulation

The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and the National Center for Adaptive Neurotechnologies (NCAN) are pleased to announce their upcoming workshop on “Neurotechnologies for Targeted Plasticity: A Practical Introduction to H-Reflex Conditioning and Paired Associative Stimulation” to be held at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago, IL on Thursday, October 3, 2024. The workshop precedes the Spinal Plasticity Symposium held on Friday, October 4, 2024.

Targeted Plasticity

It has become clear that the central nervous system is capable of change, or plasticity, throughout life. This knowledge has allowed the development of novel plasticity-based strategies for rehabilitation of neurological impairments. These protocols target beneficial change to CNS sites that are important in behaviors such as walking or reach-and-grasp. The targeted change benefits performance and enables better practice. Better practice leads to widespread beneficial changes that improve overall function. This workshop introduces two proven targeted plasticity protocols–H-reflex operant conditioning (HROC) and paired associative stimulation (PAS).

Workshop Design and Organization

The workshop begins with talks providing background on the physiology of HROC and PAS. Participants are divided into small groups to observe demonstrations and participate in hands-on exercises with HROC and PAS. Workshop participants will learn to use the Evoked Potential Operant Conditioning System (EPOCS), BioCircuit™ Operant Conditioning Software, and Spike2© (CED), practice the methodologies used for adaptive neurotechnologies, and design and implement experiments.

The fee for the workshop is $400 per person (if the registration fee is an impediment, contact us at TNP@neurotechcenter.org). Lunch and light snacks will be provided. Participants are responsible for their own transportation and housing. Registration will open at 7:30 am, and the workshop will run from 8:30 am-5:30 pm.

Who should apply?

Early to mid-career scientists or clinicians, e.g., junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, clinical researchers, residents or fellows, advanced graduate or medical students.

How to Apply

Candidates can apply by submitting their curriculum vitae or NIH biosketch and a brief statement (≤ one page) expressing why you want to participate to TNP@neurotechcenter.org. The workshop is limited to 40 participants, so we encourage early application to secure your spot.