Joseph H. Ricker Associate Professor, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation University of Pittsburgh Phone: 412-648-6654 Fax: 412-692-4354 Email: rickerjh@upmc.edu Lab Website: http://www.pitt.edu/~jhr2/

Ph.D, Wayne State University Research Interests My overall program of research is in the examination of neurobiological correlates and predictors of cognitive impairment, recovery, and rehabilitation following brain trauma in humans. Traumatic brain injury is one of the leading causes of disability, but there are virtually no effective treatments for its debilitating consequences. By understanding the neurobiological correlated and predicts of cognitive and functional disability, new pharmacological and other treatment may be developed. My current research projects include the examination of altered cerebral blood flow and metabolic correlates of impaired episodic and working memory after brain injury. Technologies utilized in my lab include functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI), functional near infrared spectroscopy (FNIRS), and positron emission tomography (PET). I also conduct research in the application of telerehabilitation technologies with individuals who have sustained brain trauma. Through the use of remote service delivery of assessment and intervention, greater numbers of individuals may be evaluated and receive needed services. Research projects are conducted in collaboration with the Magnetic Resonance Research Center, the Cognitive Neuroscience program in the Department of Psychology, and the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Recent Publications Ricker, J.H., et al., (2001). Verbal recall and recognition following traumatic brain injury: A [15O]-water positron emission tomography study. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, 23(2), 196-206. Ricker, JH, et al., (2001). Functionally Activated Brain Imaging (O-15 PET and fMRI) in the Study of Memory after Traumatic Brain Injury. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, 16(2), 191-205. Ricker J.H. et al. (2002). Telerehabilitation needs: A survey of persons with traumatic brain injury. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, 17(3), 242-250. Ricker, J.H. (2003). Clinical and methodological considerations in the application of telerehabilitation after traumatic brain injury. Neurorehabilitation, 18(2), 179-181.