JOSHUA CASHABACK
Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
STAR Campus
540 S. College Avenue, Ste 201J
Newark, DE 19713
E: joshcash@udel.edu
EDUCATION
- PDF Neuromechanics, 2019, University of Calgary
- PDF Computational Neuroscience, 2018, Western University
- Ph.D. Biomechanics, 2013, McMaster University
- B.H.K. Movement Science, 2007, University of Windsor
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
- Neuromechanics and Control of Human Movement
- Neuroplasticity and Sensorimotor Learning
AREAS OF SPECIAL INTEREST
Every aspect of our lives depends on our ability to move. The overarching goal of my research program is to understand how the nervous and muscular systems work together to maintain posture and generate movement. My research falls under two major themes. The neuroplasticity and adaptation research line tests how reinforcement feedback can subserve our ability to acquire new motor skills. The neuromechanics research line examines how the nervous system controls the complex physics of our bodies while striking a balance between efficiency and stability. To address these questions, I use a complementary blend of human experiments, theoretical work and computational modelling from the sensorimotor and biomechanics research fields. The long-term goal is to inform and develop rehabilitation paradigms to improve the quality of life for those suffering from neurological disease, such as Parkinson’s or Stroke.
SELECTED PUBLICATIONS
For a complete publication list, check Dr. Cashaback’s Google Scholar.
Neuroplasticity and Learning:
Cashaback JGA, Lao C, Palidis DJ, Coltman SK, McGregor HR, Gribble PL (2019). The gradient of the reinforcement landscape influences sensorimotor learning. PLoS Computational Biology, 15(3): e1006839.
Cashaback JGA, McGregor HR, Mohatarem A, Gribble PL (2018). Dissociating error-based and reinforcement-based loss functions during sensorimotor learning. PLoS Computational Biology, 13(7): e1005623.
McGregor HR, Cashaback JGA, Gribble PL (2016). Functional plasticity in somatosensory cortex supports motor learning by observing. Current Biology, 26(7): 921–927.
Neuromechanics
Cashaback JGA, Miller R, Michael Asmussen, Frederic Crevecoeur, Tyler Cluff (2019). Robust control strategies in the presence of uncertain load environments. Neural Control of Movement, Toyama, Japan.
Cashaback JGA, Cluff T (2015). Increased muscle stiffness at the expense of energy efficiency correlates with force variability during a fatiguing task. Journal of Biomechanics, 48(4): 621– 626.
Cashaback JGA, Potvin JR, Pierrynowski MR (2013). On the derivation of a tensor to calculate six degree-of-freedom musculotendon stiffness: Implications for stability and impedance analyses. Journal of Biomechanics, 46(15): 2741–2744.