Our Team
Scientists, clinicians, and trainees collaborating to advance spinal cord injury science and translate discoveries into meaningful therapies.
Principal Investigator
Bo Chen, PhD
Assistant Professor
The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)
- Education
Ph.D. in Applied Biomedical Science, University of Reading, UK
M.Sc. in Biomedical Science, Durham University, UK
B.Sc. in Biological Science, University of Birmingham, UK
- Postdoctoral Training
- Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Contact
Research Building 17, Room 4.212D
(409) 747-2214
bochen1@utmb.edu
Lab Members
A collaborative, interdisciplinary group focused on neuroplasticity, functional recovery, and translational science.
Junkui Shang, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow
Wei Li
Graduate Student
Min Huang
Laboratory Manager
Alfredo Sandoval
MD-PhD Student
Alfredo Sandoval is an MD-PhD student in the Neuroscience graduate program, where his research focuses on developing genetic, imaging, and computational tools to improve outcomes after spinal cord injury. His interdisciplinary work combines viral vector design, imaging and microscopy methods, and deep learning. By integrating these approaches, he aims to understand and therapeutically target persistent neuronal dysfunction, enhance neural circuit repair, and accelerate the translation of treatments for neurological disorders.
Joseph Sandoval
Undergraduate Researcher
Joseph is a senior majoring in Kinesiology with a pre-PT focus at the University of Houston Clear Lake. Since joining the lab in April 2024, he has developed computational pipelines for analyzing locomotion in spinal cord injury mouse models using deep learning pose estimation tools. His research focuses on translating pose estimation data into interpretable biomechanical readouts that identify specific locomotion deficits and inform targeted rehabilitation strategies. His background as a NASM certified personal trainer enhances his approach to movement analysis and intervention design. Joseph plans to pursue a PhD in Neuroscience/Rehabilitative Science followed by a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at UTMB. Outside the lab, he volunteers at Memorial Hermann.