Maria Laura Blefari
Papers
1
Total Citations
45
H-Index
1
About
Maria Laura Blefari is a leading neuroscientist whose research lies at the intersection of brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), neurorehabilitation, and the neural mechanisms of body ownership and agency. Her work has fundamentally advanced our understanding of how cortical and subcortical circuits enable the control of external devices—from robotic arms to communication systems—through real-time decoding of brain signals. Her highly cited 2017 paper, “Cortical and subcortical mechanisms of brain‐machine interfaces” (45 citations), provides a foundational framework for integrating subcortical structures into BMI design, moving beyond purely cortical approaches. Blefari’s contributions have been instrumental in translating these insights into therapeutic applications for motor recovery after stroke or spinal cord injury. Her research on multisensory integration and the sense of embodiment has also shaped how we design prosthetics that feel like natural extensions of the body. With a growing citation impact and a reputation for bridging fundamental neuroscience with translational engineering, Blefari is a key figure in the next generation of neuroprosthetic innovation.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Cortical and subcortical mechanisms of brain‐machine interfaces45 citations · 2017