Jennifer Iddings

About Dr. Iddings

“Discovery begins where curiosity meets purpose.”

Dr. Jennifer Iddings is a Research Scientist in Shepherd Center’s Spinal Cord Injury Research Program, where she investigates noninvasive, clinically accessible interventions to reduce spasticity, restore upper extremity function, and improve quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injury. Her work bridges neurophysiology and rehabilitation science, translating innovative strategies into real-world impact.

Since joining Shepherd in 2015, Dr. Iddings has contributed to studies on transcutaneous spinal stimulation and brain-based interventions, advancing therapies that promote neuroplasticity and functional recovery.

Research specialties

• Noninvasive brain stimulation
• Upper extremity function
• Human neurophysiology
• Transcutaneous spinal stimulation
• Spasticity

Education & training

• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Motor Control Physiology – Funded by the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation (SCIRTS Award No. 457420)
• Ph.D., Physiology – Georgia Regents University, 2015
• B.S., Biology – Oglethorpe University, 2006

Why her work matters

Dr. Iddings’ research focuses on interventions that are practical and accessible, ensuring that breakthroughs in neuroplasticity translate into meaningful improvements in independence and quality of life.

“Shepherd’s holistic rehabilitation model empowers individuals to approach recovery from multiple dimensions, fostering an optimal environment for healing. Because research is seamlessly integrated into clinical practice, patients benefit from access to the most advanced and innovative rehabilitation strategies available.”

Beyond Shepherd

Dr. Iddings is actively involved in the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, serving as Chair of the Neuroplasticity Networking Group and Co-Chair of the Noninvasive Stimulation Task Force. She also collaborates with academic and clinical partners to advance the field of rehabilitation science.