Overview
The Uniformed Services University (USU) is a key partner in military brain health research, particularly through its School of Medicine and collaboration with the NCAA on sports-related concussion studies. USU pioneered technologies and training to ensure service members with traumatic brain injuries can be treated on the future battlefield.
Key Research Areas
- Dynamic MRI: Dr. Dzung Pham's research explores how skull acceleration during TBI affects brain deformation and injury mechanisms, aiming to improve diagnosis, treatment, and protective gear design
- Sports-related concussion: 10-year partnership with NCAA studying concussions among varsity athletes including Military Service Academy students
- Blast injury prevention: Development of tools to help service members protect themselves from high-pressure shock waves created by heavy weapons during training
- Longitudinal brain health: Participation in CSI Study examining long-term biomarkers and imaging changes
Strategic Role
USU serves as a bridge between academic research and military operational needs, translating findings into practical applications for battlefield medicine and protective equipment design. The university's work spans from acute injury mechanisms to long-term brain health monitoring.
Related Programs
- CARE Consortium (Concussion Assessment, Research and Education)
- CSI Study — examining long-term brain health through advanced imaging and biomarkers
- Warfighter Brain Health Hub initiatives