Newcastle University

Introduction

I have joined OptoNeuro project from Oct. 2010. My technical role is to develop state-of-the-art software interface and efficient control methods for controlling large arrays of ultra-bright uLEDs currently developed in our lab for optogenetic neural stimulation. My other role is to develop and commercialize optoelectronic solutions for applications in basic neuro-science and neuro-prosthesis market and later for optogenetic/optoelectronic retinal and neural prosthesis market. 

Qualifications

PhD, Electronic and Computer Engineering, Newcastle University (in the area of artificial intelligence control and nonlinear dynamics)

MSc, Automation and Control (distinction), Newcastle University (in the area of fuzzy control of robotic manipulators)

BEng, Computer Hardware Design, Tehran, Iran

Background

I have seven years of hands-on experience as an IT professional. This experience includes two years with N.I.O.C. as a software developer/Project manager and three years as a senior software architect/consultant providing total solutions for major IT and ICT companies like Sun Microsystems.

Current Work

Developing control algorithms and software interface for scalable array of high-brightness Micro-LEDs used for optogenetic neural stimulation.

Investigating and designing implantable optoelectronic devices for retinal and neural prosthesis.

Research interests

Retinal prosthesis 

Neural prosthesis

Man-machine interface  

Control theory

Chaos, fractals and nonlinear dynamics

Artificial intelligence methods for modelling and system identification

Projects

      OptoNeuro (Platform for OPTOgenetic NEUROn stimulation)

      Project Principal Investigator: Dr. Patrick Degenaar

• Al-Atabany W, McGovern B, Mehran K, Berlinguer-Palmini R, Degenaar P. A processing platform for optoelectronic/optogenetic retinal prosthesis. IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering 2011, 1-10.
• Mehran K, Giaouris D, Zahawi B. Investigation of the near-grazing behavior in hard-impact oscillators using model-based TS fuzzy approach. Nonlinear Dynamics 2012, (epub ahead of print).
• Mehran K, Giaouris D, Zahawi B. Stability Analysis and Control of Nonlinear Phenomena in Boost Converters Using Model-Based Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Approach. IEEE Transactions on Circuits and Systems I: Regular Papers 2010, 57(1), 200-212.