Benjamin Butler

Biography

I am a Research Officer and PhD Student at the University of Essex. My research focuses on the integration of wearable sensor technologies, specifically inertial measurement units (IMUs) and electromyography (EMG), with machine learning approaches to identify biomechanical and neurophysiological biomarkers of musculoskeletal pain and recovery. My current work investigates how these biomarkers can be used to predict and classify recurrent neck pain, with the aim of improving prognosis and supporting personalised rehabilitation strategies. In parallel, I contribute to a funded research project examining pain processing and functional biomarkers in individuals with recurrent neck pain. My broader research interests include clinical biomechanics, sensor-based movement analysis, pain modulation mechanisms, and the application of computational methods to clinical research. My earlier work explored IMU-derived biomarkers in individuals following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLr) to serve as predictors of knee osteoarthritis (KOA), forming the foundation for my current focus on pain-related motor control.

Qualifications

• BSc Sport and Exercise Science University of Essex, (2025)

Appointments

University of Essex

• Research Officer, School of Sport, Rehabilitation, and Exercise Science, University of Essex (1/10/2025 - present)

• Research Assistant, School of Sport, Rehabilitation, and Exercise Science, University of Essex (2/6/2025 - 31/12/2025)