Vision Rewired | Ming-Fai Fong
In this episode of Holy Shift!, host Zachary Danziger talks with Dr. Ming-fai Fong, a biomedical engineer at Georgia Tech and Emory University.
Dr. Fong discusses her work on the brain’s amazing built-in power to change and adapt itself, a process called neuroplasticity. Her research team is exploring how to use this ability of the brain to help people with vision loss, including those with amblyopia, or “lazy eye.” By using techniques like light stimulation and machine learning, they’re finding new ways to help the brain see again. Beyond the lab, Dr. Fong also works with blind and visually impaired students to make science more accessible and inspiring for the next generation.
Learn More About Ming-fai Fong:
fong-lab.github.io
fong-lab.github.io
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About The Host: Zachary Danziger is a biomedical engineer, educator, and science communicator passionate about making complex research accessible and inspiring to all audiences. As a co-host of Holy Shift!, he brings curiosity, humor, and insight to conversations with today’s leading scientists and innovators. Learn more at https://scholarblogs.emory.edu/danziger/.
Meet The HolyShift! Team:
- Produced by: Erin Buckley and Zachary Danziger
- Filming & Editing: Jackie Hampton
- Logistics & Marketing Support: Katie Hart, The AGN Group
- Software Support: Mahima Patel, The AGN Group
Creators and Guests
Producer
Erin Buckley, Ph.D.
Dr. Erin Buckley is a biomedical researcher specializing in non-invasive optical imaging of the brain. She earned her PhD in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Pennsylvania and completed postdoctoral fellowships at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Massachusetts General Hospital. Her work focuses on developing and applying diffuse correlation spectroscopy and near-infrared spectroscopy to measure cerebral blood flow, oxygenation, and metabolism—particularly in pediatric populations.
Editor
Jackie Hampton
I am a senior at Emory University interested in the way cities work (especially my favorite city and hometown, Atlanta). My major in Interdisciplinary Studies offers me the opportunity to think about urban challenges and solutions from multiple perspectives, taking courses in Environmental Science, Anthropology, and Political Science. I am also completing an Architectural Studies minor, which includes both art history and studio courses.
Designer
Katie Hart
Hi, I’m Katie! As Senior Client Relations Manager and Executive Podcast Producer at The AGN Group, I’m the go-to person who brings each podcast episode to life—from concept to launch—and the driving force behind branding, social media, and strategic partnerships.
Designer
Mahima Patel
I’m a biomedical engineer and project manager passionate about turning complex ideas into real-world healthcare solutions. With experience spanning R&D, medical device development, and regulatory strategy, I’ve led projects from concept through launch at Medline Industries, Georgia Tech, and now The AGN Group. My work bridges technical precision with strategic storytelling—whether advancing medical device innovation, managing risk and timelines, or shaping content and audience engagement. I thrive at the intersection of engineering and creativity, driving impact in healthcare innovation and always looking to connect with those building what’s next.
Producer
Zachary Danziger
Zachary Danziger is a researcher blending neuroscience, AI, and mathematical biology to understand how the nervous system enables fluid, natural movement. His work spans human-subjects studies, animal experiments, and algorithm development focused on neural control of motion, brain-computer interfaces, neurourology, and neural modulation of peripheral reflexes. Driven by new theories and insights, he aims to translate fundamental science into advances in physical therapy, human-machine collaboration, and neural health.