Alliance for Brain Stimulation (ABS)

At the ABS, we are dedicated to advancing research through a multidisciplinary approach that combines state-of-the-art technology with innovative stimulation methods. Our mission is to provide shared access to cutting-edge equipment, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), eye tracking, EEG (Electroencephalography), fNIRS (functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy), and more.

Our center is focused on exploring the effects of brain stimulation through both traditional and non-traditional modalities. In addition to TMS and tDCS, we incorporate a variety of sensory stimuli such as videos, audio, and other interactive elements to enhance and diversify our research capabilities.

We bring together ECU faculty members from a range of colleges and departments, including Physical Therapy (PT), Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSDI), Mathematics, Computer Science (CS), Engineering, and Addiction & Rehabilitation Sciences (DARS). This collaborative environment is designed to facilitate the writing of grant proposals, conduct experiments, and share invaluable expertise and resources.

Join us as we explore the frontiers of neuroscience and sensory stimulation, and drive forward scientific and practical advancements in our fields.

People

Directors

Dr. Moritz Dannhauer
(ECU CS)

Dr. Kathrin Rothermich
(ECU CSDI)

Dr. Swati Surkar
(ECU PT)

Affiliate Faculty

Affiliated Students

  • Rose Iyore-Baker (PI: Rothermich)
  • Andrew “Drew” Elliott (PI: Dannhauer)
  • Forrest Fishel (PI: Dannhauer)
  • Dianming “Johnny” Chang (PI: Dannhauer)
  • Kevin Anderson (PI: Dannhauer)
  • Soundaryaa Nandhakumar (PI: Dannhauer)

What we offer

We offer collaboration opportunities for researchers interested in utilizing our advanced equipment and resources. Researchers can reach out to partner on experiments involving one or more of the available tools, such as TMS, eye tracking, EEG, fNIRS, tDCS, and BioPac systems. If you’re interested in accessing our facilities or discussing potential projects, please contact us to explore collaboration possibilities.

Equipment/Resources

The center is equipped with a variety of advanced resources for research and experimentation, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), eye tracking systems, and Electroencephalography (EEG) for monitoring brain activity. It also offers functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), and BioPac systems for physiological measurements. These tools support a broad range of studies focused on brain function and behavior.

Training/Safety

The center provides comprehensive training on the proper use of all equipment to ensure safety and compliance with research protocols. Researchers are required to complete safety training for tools like TMS, EEG, fNIRS, and tDCS, which includes understanding potential risks and the correct handling of participants. Ongoing support is available to maintain high safety standards during experimental procedures.

Student Engagement

The CBS offers ECU students from various fields hands-on experience with advanced brain stimulation and neuroimaging technologies. We encourage students to engage with our center through:

  1. Independent study with affiliated faculty – Students can gain practical experience as research assistants, contributing to ongoing studies and receiving mentorship from faculty across disciplines.
  2. Workshops and Skill-Building Sessions – Regular training workshops on TMS, EEG, fNIRS, and more, enabling students to develop expertise in cutting-edge brain research methods.
  3. Student-Led Projects – We support student-led research initiatives, providing access to equipment and guidance to help students pursue their own questions within neuroscience.

By connecting students with these opportunities, CBS fosters a hands-on learning environment, preparing them for future careers in neuroscience, healthcare, and research.

Community Outreach

The Center for Brain Stimulation (CBS) is committed to making neuroscience accessible and meaningful for the surrounding community through:

  1. Public Lectures and Demonstrations – Engaging events where CBS researchers discuss breakthroughs in brain stimulation and the science behind it, fostering a greater understanding of our work.
  2. School Outreach Programs – Collaborations with local schools to introduce K-12 students to neuroscience through interactive demonstrations and presentations.
  3. Community Health Fairs – Participation in ECU and community health fairs, where we provide information on brain stimulation’s potential for treating mental health and neurological disorders.

Through these initiatives, CBS aims to bridge the gap between science and the community and inspire the next generation of scientists.

Directions/Parking

Our center is located on the Health Science Campus of East Carolina University. Upon arriving at the main entrance, follow signs for visitor parking. Parking is available in the designated visitor lots near the research facilities, and parking permits can be requested in advance.