Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 – NEW DATE!
Time: 1:00–2:00 p.m. Eastern time
Location: On Zoom
Join us for the next NISS-CANSSI Collaborative Data Science Webinar, titled “Data Science Techniques for Control of Assistive Devices after Neurological Injury.”
Join us for an enlightening session that promises to showcase the transformative power of data science in improving the lives of those affected by neurological injuries! CANSSI and the National Institute of Statistical Sciences (NISS) are excited to announce a collaborative webinar focusing on innovative data science techniques for controlling assistive devices after neurological injury. This event aims to bring together experts in data science, neurology, and assistive technology to discuss cutting-edge research and practical applications that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with neurological impairments. This webinar is ideal for researchers, clinicians, data scientists, engineers, and anyone interested in the intersection of data science and assistive technology. Whether you are directly involved in the development of assistive devices or simply curious about the advancements in this field, this event will provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
Key topics:
Dr. Lauren Wengerd’s educational and career experiences have led her to the intersection of healthcare, research, and business. She recently completed a PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences with a graduate minor in neuroscience at The Ohio State University. Her research primarily focuses on identifying new and effective interventions to maximize function and independence for adults with neurological conditions. She is passionate about identifying not only effective but also cost-effective approaches to healthcare. She regularly incorporates cost-effectiveness analyses into clinical study design to bridge the gap between research and clinical care. Dr. Wengerd holds a master’s degree in occupational therapy and a bachelor’s degree in business administration/marketing, both of which continue to serve her well in research and clinical consulting roles. She is actively pursuing a career that will cultivate her knowledge and passion for healthcare, research, and business to ultimately enhance the quality of life and functional independence of individuals with neurological injuries.
Dr. David Friedenberg is a Principal – Data Science and Neurotechnology and the Team Lead for Machine Learning/AI in the Advanced Analytics group at Battelle. He is the PI on several neurotechnology efforts developing new AI-powered technologies to help improve the lives of people living with motor impairments due to neurological injuries like spinal cord injuries and stroke. An experienced data scientist with consulting experience across several disciplines, he is passionate about developing AI/ML-driven solutions to challenging problems for the betterment of humanity.
Nancy McMillan currently serves as Data Science Research Leader within Battelle’s Health Research & Analytics Business Line. For a diverse set of federal government clients, she leads development of a large language model (LLM)–based biocuration acceleration pipeline and user tool, development of pipelines, analytics, and visualizations of electronic initial case reporting data, and development of analytical methods for achieving abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) approval for an agile drug manufacturing technology. Nancy has a long history of collaborative work across Battelle bringing statistics and machine learning to Battelle’s deep capability in biology, chemistry, and material science. As a Researcher and Project Management Professional, Nancy has worked and published on environmental exposure and risk assessment; transportation safety benefits; quantitative risk assessment related to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) terrorism; bio surveillance; and bioinformatics. She managed the Health Analytics Division from 2017 to 2023, a team of approximately 100 data scientists that supports Battelle’s contract research business. Nancy is a member of the Board of Trustees for the National Institute of Statistical Sciences (NISS), the Chair of NISS’s Affiliates Committee, and a member of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network’s Data Advisory Committee.
In an era where data transcends traditional boundaries, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration has never been more crucial. Together with the National Institute of Statistical Sciences (NISS), we are proud to present the NISS-CANSSI Collaborative Data Science webinar series dedicated to showcasing data scientists and domain scientists from diverse scientific fields who collaborate to advance science. This initiative celebrates the power of collaboration, demonstrating how the fusion of data science with various disciplines can drive innovation, solve complex problems, and push the frontiers of knowledge beyond the realm of statistics.
Each session will feature two speakers: a data scientist and a subject matter expert from another domain who have successfully partnered to achieve impactful results. Through their shared experiences and insights, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the collaborative processes that bridge gaps between different scientific landscapes. These seminars will not only highlight successful partnerships but also provide a platform for exchanging ideas, methodologies, and best practices that inspire new collaborations.