University of Southern California · Biomedical EngineeringNeural Interface Development Lab
Ellis Meng · Los Angeles, California
Research Focus
Ellis Meng's lab at the University of Southern California focuses on the development and optimization of flexible neural probe arrays for research in neuroscience. The lab aims to create advanced polymer-based interfaces that can reliably record neural activity across different brain regions in various animal models, including rodents and nonhuman primates. By refining these technologies, the lab seeks to improve the understanding of how neural activity relates to behavior and to promote the widespread use of these innovative tools in neuroscience research.
neural probespolymer interfacesmicroelectrode arraysneurosciencebehavioral neuroscienceelectrophysiologymicrofabricationanimal modelsBRAIN Initiativechronic neural interfaces
Research Aims
5AIM 01Optimize polymer microelectrode arrays for various brain regions.
AIM 02Develop reliable methods for electrode implantation in animal models.
AIM 03Enhance the stability and performance of neural probes over extended periods.
AIM 04Create a library of designs suitable for different species and brain targets.
AIM 05Facilitate collaboration with neuroscience researchers for application of these technologies.
Skills the Lab Values
microfabrication techniquesneural recordingelectrode designsurgical implantation methodsdata analysis in neuroscienceanimal handlingelectrophysiology techniquesbehavioral assessment3D modelingprogramming for data analysis (Python or MATLAB)
Output against the department
Publications231top 44% of dept.263rd of 595
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations6.5kbottom 49% of dept.305th of 595
this lab
most citedleast cited
Career totals from OpenAlex, compared against labs that share a department. A department spans everything from one paper to tens of thousands, so bar heights are on a log scale — otherwise the largest lab would flatten every other bar to a line.