We hold our science to the highest standards because people depend on the results. At Kessler Foundation, every study is guided by the goal of translating rigorous research into practical solutions that improve function, independence, and quality of life.
internationally renowned principal investigators leading studies
peer-reviewed publications in the last five years
national and international presentations in the last five years
grants received in the last five years
Explore our research by condition, outcome area, or opportunity to participate
We research traumatic brain injury to advance recovery of thinking skills, movement, and everyday function, helping people regain independence and improve long‑term outcomes.
Our stroke research focuses on improving mobility, cognition, communication, and spatial awareness, supporting recovery and participation in daily life after stroke.
We study multiple sclerosis to address common challenges such as mobility limitations, cognitive changes, and fatigue, with the goal of supporting function, independence, and quality of life.
Our scientists take a strengths‑based approach to autism and neurodiversity, developing research‑backed strategies that support communication, participation, and meaningful life outcomes.
We study mild cognitive impairment and aging to identify ways to preserve cognitive function, reduce fall risk, and support healthy aging and independence over time.
Our research explores noninvasive and regenerative approaches to reduce joint pain, restore movement, and improve function using innovative rehabilitation techniques and technology.
We investigate ways to reduce fatigue and weakness after cancer treatment and support recovery, return to work, and quality of life for cancer survivors.
Across conditions, our research focuses on outcomes that matter most in everyday life
We advance research to restore and enhance mobility using innovative rehabilitation techniques, robotics, and neuromodulation, supporting greater independence and participation in daily life.
Our research focuses on improving cognitive skills, such as memory, attention, and information processing, to help individuals navigate everyday activities and maintain independence across the lifespan.
We examine how access to care, community participation, and supportive environments influence quality of life, and identify strategies to promote inclusion, independence, and well-being.
Our research aims to improve employment outcomes by addressing barriers to workforce participation and advancing evidence‑based strategies that support inclusion, independence, and economic security.
Our scientific leaders set research priorities, mentor the next generation of investigators, and accelerate translation into real‑world care.
Kessler Foundation research Centers are nationally recognized in neuroscience, neuropsychology, neurology, biomedical engineering, public health, and disability employment. Treatments developed by our scientists are used by rehabilitation professionals worldwide.
The Power of Partnership
Collaboration Improves Care
We partner with leading clinical and research organizations both nationally and internationally to accelerate discoveries, test bold ideas, and apply research findings to improve real-world care. Together, we accelerate translation from discovery to clinical practice through multi‑site studies, shared infrastructure, and dissemination.
Rigorous Science, Real-World Results
Employment After Spinal Cord Injury
For people living with spinal cord injury, returning to work can be one a meaningful but difficult milestones in recovery...
Peter Hersh: Life With SCI, Made Easier
Dr. Peter Hersh, who lives with a spinal cord injury, was among the first to experience transcutaneous spinal stimulation...
Small Movements. Big Wins.
After sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2004, Jimmy approaches his post-injury rehabilitation with the same athletic drive he put into baseball...
Alexa Is Making Moves After SCI
At age 21, Alexa Alvarez was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis, a rare nontraumatic cause of spinal cord injury...
Bill Pastras, Why Research Matters to Me After My Stroke and TBI
In 2017, my life changed in an instant. While driving on the New Jersey Turnpike, I suddenly felt weak and lost control of my car...
Therese Bertrand, Finding My Way Forward With Multiple Sclerosis
A phone call changed Therese Bertrand's life. It brought a diagnosis she had never expected...
Suzanne Cliff's Journey After Stroke
Suzanne had always been a take-charge kind of person. That all changed after her stroke...
Rafael Torres, Finding Hope After SCI
Almost 20 years ago, Rafael's life changed in an instant. He woke up in the hospital and learned he was paralyzed from the waist down.
Pastora Goldner, A Mother’s Day Reflection
Over thirty years ago, Pastora was involved in a devastating car accident in the middle of the desert. She has lived with a spinal cord injury ever since.
Angela Pennella, It's Never Too Late to Learn After TBI
Angela Pennella was on her way home when a driver crossed into her lane and struck her car head-on. She sustained extensive injuries, including a traumatic brain injury...
Interview Skills Boost Holly Coviello's Confidence Despite Autism
For 18-year-old Holly Coviello and her mother, the typical questions about finding employment have loomed large. Holly is autistic.
Victor Pena Keeps Life Sporty After SCI
“I’m passionate about sports,” says Victor Pena, who lives with SCI. “Staying active improves my physical and mental health.”
Important Resources and Opportunities
Learn more, get involved, or advance your career through the following resources
We regularly launch new studies, each offering a unique opportunity for volunteers to play a vital role in advancing rehabilitation science. Find one that interests you. You may be compensated for your time and travel.
Kessler Foundation and Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation work together on two federally designated Model Systems for traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Each Model System is part of a national network of specialized centers that provide coordinated care, lead innovative research, and collect long-term data to advance rehabilitation and improve outcomes.
Learn more about these centers of excellence:
Northern New Jersey Traumatic Brain Injury System (NNJTBIS)
Kessler Foundation Learning Center offers flexible, online courses for rehabilitation professionals, clinicians, and caregivers. Discover research-backed interventions for stroke and brain injury survivors, people with spinal cord injury, and young people with learning and thinking differences.
The Institutional Review Board is an independent committee that protects the rights and safety of individuals participating in research at Kessler Foundation. The IRB reviews each study to ensure that any potential risks are minimized and justified by the expected benefits.
Our Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Program equips postdoctoral fellows with the knowledge, skills, and expertise to advance clinical research and enhance rehabilitation outcomes.
