Randall Benson

Background

About Randall Benson

Dr. Randall Benson is a globally regarded behavioral neurologist and imaging neuroscientist recognized for developing new treatments for incapacitating brain disorders through the use of advanced, functional MRI methods. Dr. Benson became the first dual Research Fellow in Behavioral Neurology and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) at Harvard Medical School and the NMR Center at Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Benson pioneered a new technique, fMRI, for mapping language areas in the brains of neurosurgical patients. This eventually led to FDA approval for “fMRI pre-surgical mapping” in 2007and now is a clinical procedure performed throughout the U.S. and globally. Dr. Benson’s commitment to finding novel ways to enhance recovery of function after stroke led to multiple investigations into the use of targeted electrical/magnetic stimulation of the brain in motor and language impairment following stroke. Since 2004, Dr. Benson has worked closely with a team, to develop and validate advanced imaging methods to detect traumatic injuries in mild cases of closed head injury. They've received funding from the National Institute of Health, Department of Defense and The National Football League, and others. He testified in front of the House Judiciary Committee and lectured at a Department of Defense-sponsored workshop regarding the diagnosis of mild TBI in soldiers using advanced imaging methods. He lectures frequently to attorneys and other physicians and researchers on TBI and advanced imaging methods. Dr. Benson’s research on brain disorders is usually high impact and cutting edge. His earliest fMRI work in patients was featured on a segment of NBC’s Today Show in 1994. His use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the brain in stroke patients was the topic of an AP Press article and a Time Magazine article. Most recently, his TBI imaging research led to his testimony before the House Judiciary Committee and an interview with Sports Illustrated. Specialties: neurology, neuroscience, traumatic brain injury, MRI, advanced MRI