Seongmi Song, PhD

I earned my PhD in Kinesiology from Texas A&M University, specializing in motor learning. My doctoral research focused on understanding cortical responses during walking with assistive devices and in simulated reduced-gravity environments. Specifically, I investigated human cortical activations while walking with exoskeletons, in water environments, and under mechanical bodyweight support, utilizing electrophysiological signals such as EEG and EMG. As part of my internship and fellowship work with the U.S. Army Research Lab, I examined cortical changes based on users’ experience with exoskeletons. This research identified potential neural markers that could inform the development of real-time control systems for assistive devices. Additionally, my work on simulated gravity environments revealed that mechanical bodyweight support and underwater environments elicit distinct cortical and muscular activation patterns, offering valuable insights into human adaptation to assistive environments. Prior to my PhD, I gained experience in designing 3D models and developing robotic controllers. My expertise spans signal processing, control system design, and the integration of engineering principles with movement science.

In the Wang Lab, I aim to extend my expertise to clinical research, focusing on translational approaches that make these findings more directly beneficial to patients, ultimately advancing assistive technology development and rehabilitation strategies.