Shakil Salim Rajan
PhD fellow at the University of Bergen
My name is Shakil Salim Rajan, and I am a healthcare professional and PhD Research Fellow at the University of Bergen. I hold a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) and a Master’s in International Community Health from the University of Oslo, with a focus on epidemiology, vaccine hesitancy, and global health challenges. I have over 10 years of industry experience and nearly 8 years of voluntary work as a health educator in Pakistan, focusing on infectious disease prevention, vaccination coverage, and maternal and child health.
As part of my research, I am currently working on utilizing sensor technology to monitor symptoms in people with Parkinson's Disease. This project aims to improve patient outcomes and support neurologists in assessing symptoms and treatment effects. I am deeply committed to exploring innovative solutions to health challenges, particularly in vulnerable populations like the elderly.
Tell us about your project!
My current project, DIGI PARK 2, focuses on using wearable sensors and digital phenotyping to monitor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease (PD), a complex neurodegenerative condition that primarily affects the elderly. By passively capturing motor and non-motor symptoms, the project aims to enhance understanding of PD and improve care through advanced monitoring techniques.
We will evaluate motor symptoms such as tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Additionally, compensatory behaviors of the non-dominant hand will be examined, using controls. Sensor-derived data will be integrated with medication timing, and clinical assessments to analyze movement patterns and medication responses.
This observational study will enroll 110 participants (90 with PD and 20 controls) using Axivity sensors worn for 7 days. The project highlights the potential of sensor technology for precise, remote monitoring of PD symptoms, offering valuable societal impact by advancing care and understanding for those living with Parkinson’s Disease.
“ I am currently working on utilizing sensor technology to monitor symptoms in people with Parkinson's Disease”
— Shakil Salim Rajan on his PhD project “Application of wearable sensors for monitoring motor symptoms and response to medication in Parkinson’s Disease”