Shanechi’s research will use deep learning and AI to create novel techniques that better decode brain biomarkers of symptom severity (PHOTO CREDIT: Maryam Shanechi)
One Mind is a leading mental health non-profit that seeks to improve lives through science and advocacy. Shanechi was one of only three awardees selected nationwide by the One Mind scientific advisory board, which consists of ten of the world’s leading scientists and clinicians. Mental disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, but current treatments fail many patients. One major difficulty in addressing mental disorders is the inter- and intra-individual variability in symptoms and response to therapy.
Shanechi’s research will tackle this challenge by developing powerful AI algorithms that enable personalized therapy. These AI algorithms will interpret brain signals and use them to track the variations in symptom severity over time. This tracking can enable tailoring the therapy to a patient’s varying needs. Shanechi is one of two engineers being honored in 2022, showing a growing place for engineers in the field. “Mental health is a major challenge of our time. Taking an interdisciplinary approach will be key to meeting this complex challenge. I think engineers can make a significant contribution by developing technologies that take us closer to personalization,” she explains. Indeed, Shanechi’s research is focused on the mental health domain from a unique engineering perspective.
While hardware technology exists to monitor the brain’s electrical signals, a major challenge is in correctly interpreting these complex signals. Shanechi’s research will use deep learning and AI to create novel techniques that better decode brain biomarkers of symptom severity. “This could help pave the way to precision psychiatry,” Shanechi said.
Shanechi also presented her research on September 10th, 2022 at the 28th Annual One Mind Music Festival for Brain Health, which was held at the vineyard of the One Mind founders, Shari and Garen Staglin, and One Mind President Brandon Staglin. The festival was attended by many leaders in the mental health industry.
Back in March, Shanechi was also one of the select speakers at the annual MARS Conference hosted by Amazon founder and executive chair, Jeff Bezos. MARS is a meeting of innovative experts in Machine learning, Automation, Robotics, and Space, which is attended by leading academics including Noble laureates, industry leaders, CEOs, and celebrities. Shanechi went into depth there about how she leverages AI to develop next-generation neurotechnology that addresses standing brain health challenges. Highlights of her MARS talk can be seen in the below video.
Published on October 19th, 2022
Last updated on October 19th, 2022
