Graduate Student Spotlight
December 2025 Spotlight
Ashley Bland
MS/PhD Student, Bioengineering
Ashley's research centers the development of machine learning systems that non-invasively classify brain activity from functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for intuitive prosthetic control. By leveraging machine learning and deep learning systems, she works to translate neural patterns associated with various upper-limb movements into prosthetic commands that feel natural and responsive for amputees. She's developing and evaluating classification models that interpret motor intention, aiming to enable prosthetic arms that users can operate as intuitively as their own limb. Her work seeks to advance next-generation brain computer interfaces that improve mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for individuals using prosthetic devices.
In her free time, Ashley enjoys playing bass guitar, going to concerts, traveling, playing video games, and staying active in the gym. She lifts, works out, or practices yoga daily, which helps her stay grounded and energized, while music, gaming, and exploring new places inspire her creativity.
What made you choose KU's School of Engineering?
I chose KU's School of Engineering for its strong emphasis on translational research and real-world impact beyond the lab. I knew I wanted to work on projects that could help real people soon, and KU provided that opportunity. The collaborative and interdisciplinary environment also stood out to me, as engineering and innovation thrives when ideas, expertise, and creativity are shared across fields. KU actively supports and encourages that kind of teamwork. KU SOE also has faculty who have done exciting work in industry, academia, and entrepreneurial ventures, and it has been valuable to learn from their experiences and perspectives.
What is something that makes KU's School of Engineering different?
KU's School of Engineering stands out for its emphasis on translational research, strong sense of community, and accessibility to faculty who bring experience from industry, startups, and research commercialization. This brings a lot of cool new opportunities to students, including courses related to current technological trends and real-world challenges, as well as unique collaborations that encourage innovation and practical impact.
What opportunities, beyond classes and research, have you participated in through KU’s School of Engineering?
Outside of research, Ashley has served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for Materials Science and for two sections of the Human Anatomy Observation Lab, where she supports student learning through prosecutions, donor observation, and anatomical models. In these roles, she reinforces lab material and helps students build a strong anatomical foundation as they prepare for medical school, physical therapy, nursing, and other health-related professional programs. She stays professionally active through participation in KUMC's Student Research Forum, attending academic seminars and guest speaker events, and exploring patent law through internship and part-time experiences as a registered patent agent. A highlight of her involvement beyond the classroom was mentoring women through the KWLI program, where she guided participants in developing community-focused research projects. Collectively, these experiences have strengthened her skills in teaching, mentorship, leadership, and community engagement.
Visit Ashley Bland's LinkedIn