Andria Farrens, PhD
Faculty Candidate
Postdoctoral Fellow
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
University of California, Irvine
Seminar Information
This seminar summarizes my research combining neuroimaging and robotics to understand how sensory-motor integration and cognitive factors contribute to motor learning, in order to improve rehabilitation for stroke survivors. In my research, I use robotic devices to assess and train both sensory and motor domains of motor control, to study fundamental mechanisms of sensorimotor learning. Through the development of fMRI-compatible robotic devices, my research pairs fMRI with computational modeling to localize distinct brain regions associated with independent learning processes and the retention of training. By testing models of neuromotor control through paired evaluation of neural function, I aim to improve evaluation of neuromotor dysfunction from behavioral measures alone, moving a step closer to precision rehabilitation. I will further discuss my research in gamified robotic rehabilitation for stroke survivors and the efficacy of proprioceptive based gaming. Through this research, I have identified EEG biomarkers of proprioceptive processing that are sensitive to performance feedback and responsive to training. This line of research has applications not only for stroke survivors, but also for individuals with spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy and in aging.
Dr. Andria Farrens is an Institute for Clinical and Translational Science Postdoctoral fellow working with Dr. David Reinkensmeyer at the University of California, Irvine. She leads a clinical trial on robotic rehabilitation of the hand for chronic stroke survivors, and conducts research on how proprioception mediates recovery and motor learning. She received her doctorate from the University of Delaware in Biomedical Engineering, where she received the University of Delaware Dissertation Fellowship and Biomedical Engineering Rising Star Award. Her thesis research focused on the development and application of fMRI compatible robotics to study neuromotor control of movement in healthy individuals, to inform the development of new rehabilitation protocols. She received her Bachelor’s degree with honors from the University of California, Davis in Mechanical Engineering, with a minor in Biomedical Engineering. In addition to her research, she is an active member of the Perry Initiative, a non-profit organization that leads outreach programs on engineering and medicine for young women.