Biosignal processing of respiratory motor signals (EMG and Plethysmography waveforms)
Source: https://ugresearch.osu.edu/research-postings/biosignal-processing-respiratory-motor-signals-emg-and-plethysmography-waveforms Parent: https://ugresearch.osu.edu/research-positions
Field of Study:
Computer science, biomedical engineering, neuroscience
Department:
Neuroscience
Rank of Student:
Students with advanced understanding of biosignal processing/machine learning approaches who can commit to 2+ years of research
Desired Majors:
Computer science, biomedical engineering, neuroscience (with advanced coding background)
Hours per Week:
10
Compensation Type:
Academic Credit,
Work-Study,
Voluntary Experience
Application Deadline:
May 31, 2026
Contact:
sabhya.rana@osumc.edu
Private
Public
Project Description
The Rana Lab studies the neural control of breathing, with a focus on how spinal cord circuits regulate respiratory motor output and how this function is disrupted following neurological injury, particularly spinal cord injury. Our research involves collecting and analyzing physiological signals, including diaphragm electromyography (EMG) and ventilatory measurements in preclinical models.\ \ We are seeking a motivated undergraduate with strong coding experience to contribute to the analysis and quantification of these biological signals. This role focuses on developing and implementing analytical pipelines for EMG and respiratory data, with the goal of improving how motor outcomes are assessed across projects in the lab.\ \ Role and Responsibilities\ - Analyze and quantify physiological datasets, including diaphragm EMG and ventilatory signals\ - Develop, optimize, and maintain code for signal processing and data analysis\ - Contribute to standardized and scalable analysis workflows\ - Collaborate with lab members, including an experienced computer science student\ \ This position offers the opportunity to take ownership of a complete dataset and contribute to multiple research projects. Strong contributions may lead to co-authorship on manuscripts. \ \ Additional Information\ This is a computationally focused role and does not require participation in wet-lab experiments. Students are welcome to observe or engage with experimental work if interested, but the primary emphasis is on coding and data analysis. The position is well-suited for students in computer science or biomedical engineering seeking experience with real biological datasets and integration into an active research environment.\ \ There are also opportunities to develop capstone or independent research projects through relevant campus programs and centers.\ \ Please note: This position is not intended for students primarily seeking wet-lab experience.
Additional Information
Feel free to peruse our website and read prior publications to see how your skills might synergize with our science. \ theranalab.com
Required Applicant Information
Cover letter or email with a description of previous experience with relevant coding \ Description of future goal and how this experience would synergize with your career goals\ Relevant courses taken\ CV or resume\ \ Bonus: Ideas for biosignal analysis methods applicable to respiratory signals, motor unit decomposition etc. based on current literature
Required or Desired Skills
Required Skills:\ Demonstrable proficiency in at least one of the following languages:\ Python \ Matlab\ C++\ Basic proficiency in Data Structures and Algorithms \ Basic understanding of data analytics and statistics \ Proficiency in version control (git)\ Minimum GPA of 3.6\ \ ——————————————\ \ Desired skills:\ Experience with signal processing \ Experience with machine learning and model development \ Willingness to learn \ Excellent communication skills
Faculty Member Lead:
Sabhya Rana
Starting Semester:
Spring
Length of Project (in semesters):
3