Bonfert, Michaela Veronika

Title(s): Dr. med.

Current Position/Designation: Head of Concussion Clinic, Research Group Neuromodulation & Pediatric Headache Outpatient Clinic

Institutional Affiliation: LMU University Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Dr. von Hauner Children’s Hospital & Munich University Center for Children with Medical & Developmental Complexity (iSPZ Hauner MUC).

Active Email Address: michaela.bonfert@med.lmu.de

Social Media Handle: Linkedin Michaela Bonfert

Telephone Number (WhatsApp): +49 (0) 17632851322

As a pediatrician with long-standing experience in child neurology, one of my main interests lies in neurorehabilitation for young patients with congenital or acquired brain injury, including cerebral palsy, stroke, and traumatic brain injury. Together with an interprofessional team, we established a patient- and family-centered, multimodal care program that is continuously refined based on emerging evidence and our own research. Our focus lies on novel, non-pharmacological, non-invasive approaches to promote motor function, daily performance, participation, and independence, thereby supporting age-appropriate development.
Against this background, I am highly motivated for the professional exchange with international experts within the Commission to assess current care structures and evidence in pediatric neurorehabilitation. I am deeply committed to contributing to the development and the implementation of evidence-based recommendations considering global perspectives. Finally, I dispose of a broad clinical and research network in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) to acquire additional collaborators or multiplicators whenever appropriate.

Relevant Professional Skills/Experiences

  • Extensive training & experience in child neurology & neurorehabilitation

  • Neurostimulation – TMS & rNMS

  • Transsectoral research environment

  • Interprofessional, multidisciplinary care pathways for young patients affected by congenital or acquired brain injury

Relevant Career Highlights

  • Implementation of the first comprehensive Concussion & TBI Clinic for children and adolescents with activities in the key sectors: care pathways, clinical research, scientific networks, education and public awareness
  • Development and establishment of a novel, non-pharmacological approach of neurostimulation: repetitive neuromuscular magnetic stimulation (rNMS)
  • Speaker of the Commission on Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury of the German-speaking Society of Neuropaediatrics
  • Member of the Commission on Pediatric Headache of the German-speaking Society of Neuropaediatrics
  • Member of the Steering Committee of the “Alliance against Traumatic Brain Injury” of the German Brain Council
  • Speaker of the German Working Group on Acquired Brain Injury in Childhood, Adolescence and Young Adulthood
  • Member of the Board of Trustees of the ZNS-Foundation, Germany