About

My research focuses on mathematical models of neuronal systems and how network architecture and intrinsic properties of neurons shape emergent firing patterns. I work at the intersection of applied dynamical systems, mathematical biology, and computational neuroscience.

Courses Taught

  • MATH 1000 & 2000 levels (including Calculus)
  • MATH 3256 — Linear Algebra
  • MATH 3307 — Mathematical Statistics I
  • MATH 3331/4331 — ODEs
  • MATH 4057 & MATH 6001 — Matrix Algebra

Research Interests

  • Mathematical Biology & Computational Neuroscience
  • Applied Dynamical Systems
  • Basal Ganglia physiology & Parkinson's disease
  • Drug/Alcohol addiction physiology
  • Olfactory systems, discrete dynamical systems
  • Social-status dependent decision making
  • Communication Disorder

Publications

Complete list available: Google Scholar

Also available: ORCID

  • 29) Ahn, S., Malaia, E.A., Rubchinsky, L.L. (2025) "Distinct neurodynamics of functional brain networks in Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia as revealed by EEG." Clinical Neurophysiology. Link
  • 28) Ahn, S., Rubchinsky, L.L., Malaia, E.A. (2025) "Distinct Modes of Functional Neural Organization in Autism: Insights from Dynamical Systems Analysis of Resting-State EEG." Biological Psychology. Link
  • 27) Clements, K.N., Ahn, S., Park, C., Heagy, F.K., Miller, T.H., Kassai, M., Issa, F.A. (2023) "Socially mediated shift in neural circuits activation regulated by synergistic neuromodulatory signaling." eNeuro. Link
  • 26) Rothermich, K., Ahn, S., Dannhauer, M., Pell, M.D. (2022) "Social appropriateness perception of dynamic interactions." Social Neuroscience. Link
  • 25) Park, C., Rubchinsky, L.L., Ahn, S. (2021) "Mathematical model of subthalamic nucleus neuron: characteristic activity patterns and bifurcation analysis." Chaos. Link
  • 24) Orr, S.A., Ahn, S., Park, C., Miller, T.H., Kassai, M., Issa, F.A. (2021) "Social Experience Regulates Endocannabinoids Modulation of Zebrafish Motor Behaviors." Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience. Link
  • 23) McDonnell, J., Murray, N.P., Ahn, S., Clemens, S., Everhart, E., Mizelle, J.C. (2021) "Examination and Comparison of Theta Band Connectivity in Left- and Right-Hand Dominant Individuals throughout a Motor Skill Acquisition." Symmetry. Link
  • 22) Ahn, S., Rubchinsky, L.L. (2020) "Temporal patterns of dispersal-induced synchronization in population dynamics." Journal of Theoretical Biology. Link

Grants & Funding

  • AMS-Simons Research Enhancement Grants for Primarily Undergraduate Institution Faculty. Role: PI (2024–2027)
  • DHHS - National Institutes of Health (NIH): "Tissue Specific Impact of Organic Cations on Mitochondrial Energy Transduction". Role: Advisor (2021–2024)
  • Simons Foundation Mathematics and Physical Sciences-Collaboration Grants for Mathematicians. Role: PI (2018–2023) (terminated due to the foundation's policy)
  • ECU Interdisciplinary research grant "Investigating the neural mechanisms underlying behavioral shift between opposing behaviors". Role: Co-PI (2017–2018)
  • ECU Teaching Grant "Improving student's active mathematical learning and problem-solving skills with video modules". Role: PI (2019–2020)
  • ECU Teaching Grant "Enhancing student's mathematical learning and writing skills". Role: PI (2017–2018)
  • Korea-U.S. Science Cooperation Center "East-coastal natural science education and career development symposium for young generations". Role: Co-PI (2018)
  • Korea-U.S. Science Cooperation Center "East-coastal science education symposium". Role: Co-PI (2017)