The BrainStAR lab is dedicated to understanding the neurophysiological processes underpinning musculoskeletal and neurological disorders. Established at Western Sydney University in 2020, the lab now encompasses teams across both Western Sydney University and the Queensland University of Technology. We use non-invasive brain stimulation techniques to assess brain changes in response to processes such as pain and motor learning, facilitating the development of novel treatment strategies. The lab aims to improve the quality of life of people living with chronic conditions, also striving to better understand the biological and psychosocial determinants of health. We are passionate about evidence-based practice, actively supporting the translation of research into clinical practice.
Our research priorities are:
- To understand drivers of neuroplasticity in the healthy human brain.
- To understand how the brain is altered in response to neurological and musculoskeletal conditions.
- To develop novel treatments directed towards promoting beneficial neuroplastic changes.
- To enhance and optimising existing treatments through incorporating non-invasive brain stimulation techniques into traditional management approaches.
