Mathew Rynes is a PhD candidate in biomedical engineering at the University of Minnesota. He is a member of the Biosensing and Biorobotics Lab under Professor Suhasa B. Kodandaramaiah's group where his research focuses on developing technology for cortex-wide imaging in freely behaving animals and using this technology to answer questions about how brain-wide activity dynamics change during learning to navigate novel spaces. Matt's current research goals are to push technology use in neuroscience to bolster our understanding of how brain-wide activity gives rise to complex behaviors we perform in everyday life. He believes technology is at the core of progression in understanding and treating diseases as well as benefitting society in general.

Matt's background is in neuroscience; he began his studies at the University of Minnesota pursuing an undergraduate degree in neuroscience and biochemistry with an emphasis in motor systems and decision making. He then moved onto research developing materials to store bio specimens in non-cryogenic conditions to avoid the damage it causes to certain biomarkers. After this project, he moved on to pursue graduate studies in the master’s program in biomedical engineering at the University of Minnesota. There, he began building and characterizing tools for neuroscientists. He completed a project on adapting highly developed computer numerical control milling devices for micro-surgical procedures in small research animals.

As an ARCS Scholar, Matt will continue to push his attempts to understand the brain further, including the possible development and application of new technology. He will continue to present his work and ideas among the scientific community. He will Matt hopes that his research can help further the field of neuroscience, and hopefully some things he is able to learn about the brain can be used to help in the understanding of diseases.