
March 3, 2025 – BackStop Neural, a pioneering company dedicated to relieving pain and restoring movement through advanced spinal cord stimulation technologies, is proud to announce that Dr. Stuart Cogan, ScD, has joined its Advisory Board. Dr. Cogan brings a distinguished career in bioengineering, materials science, and neural stimulation to BackStop Neural, bolstering the company’s mission to create the world’s most advanced spinal cord stimulation leads for chronic pain and motor recovery.
Dr. Cogan is a globally recognized expert in the development of materials and devices for nervous system stimulation and recording, with an emphasis on long-term chronic implants. His contributions to this field have redefined the boundaries of what is possible in neurotechnology, making him an invaluable addition to BackStop Neural’s Advisory Board.
A Distinguished Career in Neural Stimulation and Materials Science
Dr. Cogan’s career spans more than three decades, during which he has consistently been at the forefront of innovation. Before joining the University of Texas at Dallas as a professor of bioengineering, Dr. Cogan spent over 30 years with EIC Laboratories. There, he rose to the position of Vice President and led groundbreaking projects in neural stimulation and recording, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.
His academic credentials are equally impressive. Dr. Cogan earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Material Science from Duke University. He went on to receive a Doctorate in Materials Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), furthering his deep understanding of the complex interplay between materials and neural interfaces.
Innovative Research Driving Neurotechnology Forward
At the University of Texas at Dallas, Dr. Cogan’s research focuses on the development and characterization of materials and devices that are stable for long-term use and capable of safely delivering therapeutic levels of stimulation. His work includes:
Thin Film Fabrication: Creating multielectrode devices to enhance neural stimulation and recording capabilities.
Implantable Encapsulation Development: Ensuring the durability and reliability of devices in chronic implant applications.
Electrochemical Characterization: Examining how materials interact with biological systems to optimize performance.
Stimulation-Induced Damage Mechanisms: Investigating and mitigating potential electrode and tissue damage caused by prolonged stimulation.
Dr. Cogan’s expertise in these areas aligns seamlessly with BackStop Neural’s mission to develop state-of-the-art spinal cord stimulation leads that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Strengthening BackStop Neural’s Mission
“We are honored to welcome Dr. Stuart Cogan to our Advisory Board,” said Connie Manz, CEO of BackStop Neural. “His unparalleled expertise in electrochemistry and electrophysiology will be instrumental as we advance the development and manufacturing of our spinal cord stimulation technologies. Dr. Cogan’s guidance will help us achieve our goal of providing cutting-edge solutions for chronic pain relief and motor recovery.”
Dr. Cogan’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for BackStop Neural, as the company prepares to transition from development to manufacturing. With his advisory role, Dr. Cogan will provide strategic insights to enhance product design, ensure biocompatibility, and accelerate the path to market.
“I am excited to join the Advisory Board of BackStop Neural and collaborate with a team that shares my commitment to innovation and improving patient care,” said Dr. Cogan. “The company’s focus on advanced spinal cord stimulation technologies represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of chronic pain and motor recovery. I look forward to contributing to the mission and seeing these transformative solutions reach patients.”
BackStop Neural continues to attract leading experts across disciplines, underscoring its position as a trailblazer in neurotechnology. The addition of Dr. Cogan to the Advisory Board reinforces the company’s dedication to scientific excellence and its commitment to improving the lives of individuals suffering from chronic pain and mobility impairments.
About BackStop Neural
BackStop Neural is a mission-driven company focused on relieving pain and restoring movement through cutting-edge spinal cord stimulation technologies. By combining advanced materials science, innovative engineering, and a patient-centered approach, BackStop Neural is developing the world’s most advanced spinal cord stimulation leads for chronic pain relief and motor recovery.
For more information, please visit www.backstopneural.com
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