Welcome to the Sport Concussion Research and Service Lab. Our lab is home to one of the leading collaborations of multidisciplinary facilities focused on traumatic brain injuries in athletics.

The lab uses leading edge technologies, such as a virtual reality (VR) incorporated with brain imaging tools, such as fMRI, DTI, MRS, ASL, SWI, and EEG, to examine the alteration of brain function and structure in concussed individuals. The multidisciplinary research and service are focused on both collegiate athletics and pediatric populations.

The collaboration has three main functions:

Research

Ongoing research into how concussions affect the brain and motor functions, specifically vestibular and oculomotor functions in athletes. Research has also been done on the use of virtual reality in assessing concussions and when the athlete will safely be able to return to play. The lab is part of a multidisciplinary research initiative to better understand the role of neuroimaging surrounding TBI. Please see the publications page for details on our various projects.

Testing Services

The lab provides testing services to the Penn State athletic community for sports which have a high probability of their athletes having a concussion. Services have also been provided to local schools and teams as well.

Education

Under the direction of Dr. Semyon Slobounov, the lab has graduated several undergraduate and graduate students who have successfully acquired various research and educational positions. We currently have four graduate students and several undergraduate students participating in research on concussion. Expanding the knowledge base of our students, and for them to go out into the world and help society is an integral part and commitment of the lab.