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About

Nicolas Hankov is a leading researcher at the intersection of spinal cord neuromodulation and rehabilitation robotics, whose work is redefining recovery possibilities for individuals with paralysis. His primary research areas include neuroprosthetics, spinal cord stimulation, and activity-dependent neurorehabilitation. Hankov’s major contribution lies in demonstrating how targeted electrical stimulation of the spinal cord can be integrated with robotic exoskeletons to enhance neural reorganization and motor recovery. His proof-of-concept study, published in 2025, showed that combining implantable spinal cord neuromodulation with robotic rehabilitation enables paralyzed individuals to generate meaningful neural activity—a critical factor previously missing from conventional robot-assisted therapy. This work has already garnered 13 citations in a short time, signaling its rapid impact on the field. Hankov’s approach bridges the gap between passive robotic support and active neuroplasticity, offering a transformative pathway for restoring voluntary movement. His research is particularly notable for its translational potential, bringing together engineering and neuroscience to address one of the most challenging barriers in spinal cord injury rehabilitation.