Research
Areas of Investigation
My research combines advanced neuroimaging, computational genetics, and artificial intelligence to understand how the brain changes with age and disease.
Neuroimaging Biomarkers
Developing advanced diffusion MRI methods — including free-water imaging, tract-based analysis, and multi-site harmonization — to detect early white matter changes in aging and Alzheimer's disease. These biomarkers enable earlier detection and tracking of neurodegeneration before clinical symptoms emerge.
Computational Genetics
Integrating genome-wide association studies, polygenic risk scores, and gene expression analyses with neuroimaging data to uncover how genetic variation shapes brain aging trajectories. This work identifies genetic modifiers of white matter integrity and cognitive decline risk.
White Matter Neurodegeneration
Characterizing patterns of white matter microstructural decline across the adult lifespan using longitudinal diffusion MRI. This research maps how specific white matter tracts deteriorate in normal aging versus Alzheimer's disease, stroke, and movement disorders.
AI-Derived Brain Signatures
Building deep neural networks that estimate biological brain age from MRI scans. The gap between predicted and chronological brain age serves as a sensitive biomarker for cognitive impairment, enabling personalized risk assessment and clinical trial stratification.
Affiliations
Research Collaborations
VMAP
Vanderbilt Memory & Aging Project
Longitudinal cohort study of cognitive aging and early Alzheimer's disease.
Role: Investigator
VADRC
Vanderbilt Alzheimer's Disease Research Center
NIA-funded center advancing understanding and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Role: Core Member
CNT
Center for Cognitive Neurology & Therapeutics
Multidisciplinary research center focused on cognitive disorders.
Role: Faculty
VALIANT
Vanderbilt Lineages of Alzheimer's Neurodegeneration Trajectories
Multi-cohort study of neurodegeneration trajectories across diverse populations.
Role: Investigator