Movement and Cognitive Rehabilitation Science
Department of Kinesiology and Health Education
Movement and Cognitive Rehabilitation Science (MCRS) graduate programs combine the traditional fields of biomechanics, motor development, motor control, and learning, and cognitive and neuromuscular function. This program examines multidisciplinary aspects of how people move in a variety of settings, including clinical applications, elite performance, and typical changes related to development and aging. The MCRS curriculum is designed to support students interested in pursuing careers in research and the allied health sciences.
Students benefit from the diverse backgrounds and experience of the program faculty and their colleagues across the campus, including faculty collaborators in biology, engineering, medicine, neuroscience, and psychology.
Programs
Undergraduate Studies
Majors
Undergraduate students interested in studying Rehabilitation Movement Science can choose related coursework in the following majors:
These majors allow students to select a specialization in Disability Studies which offers courses specializing in working with students with a variety of disabling conditions.
Minor
Students not majoring in Kinesiology and Health Education may pursue an interdisciplinary minor with a Disability Studies track, and/or enroll in selected undergraduate courses that may fulfill degree requirements in a variety of academic degree programs on campus.
Undergraduate students interested in pursuing any of these options should consult with a Kinesiology and Health Education academic advisor in the College of Education.
Faculty
 Owen BeckAssistant Professor Studies how biomechanics affect human physiology and locomotion performance. Particularly interested in how body dimensions and muscle-tendon mechanics affect metabolism, fatigue and speed. |
 Brian FarrClinical Associate Professor Serves as Director of the Athletic Training Education Program and specializes in sports medicine, training athletes, athletic injuries, strength and conditioning, and sports rehabilitation. |
 Michael FreedbergAssistant Professor Investigates the organization and interactions between memory systems using noninvasive brain stimulation and fMRI with the goal of developing targeted interventions to rescue memory in patients with memory loss. |
 Lisa GriffinAssociate Professor, Program Director Investigates neural control mechanisms during muscle fatigue and aging with single-motor unit recording, and designs electrical stimulation protocols for individuals with paralysis. |
 Hao Yuan HsiaoAssistant Professor Studies the biomechanical and neuromuscular control mechanisms of human movement and translates this knowledge into practical solutions that reduce walking-related disability |
 Sara HussainAssistant Professor Studies the neural mechanisms of human motor control and uses this information to develop new brain stimulation interventions that improve motor function in patients with neurological damage. |
 Esbelle JowersResearch Assistant Professor Studies school and community-based interventions regarding physical activity, healthy eating, and the prevention of chronic disease. |
 Kelvin PhanClinical Assistant Professor Researches the practical applications of biomechanics and dynamic postural control associated with sport-related injuries. |
 Safeer SiddickyAssistant Professor of Instruction Studies the biomechanics of infants in commercial baby gear and orthopedic devices, and parents/caregivers carrying infants during activities of daily living. |
Research Labs
FALCON Lab
Studies the organization of memory systems with the goal of developing targeted treatments for memory disorders.
Human Locomotion Lab
Studies how biomechanics affect physiology and performance.
Neuromuscular Physiology Research Laboratory
Conducts studies specializing in the investigation of neuromuscular control patterns in healthy, clinical and aging populations with the use of intramuscular fine-wire recording and electrical stimulation.
Neurorehabilitation and Biomechanics Lab
Seeks to understand the mechanisms of biomechanical and neuromuscular control of normal and pathological movements and to apply this knowledge to design interventions that improve functional movements.
Sensorimotor Neuroplasticity Lab
Studies the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying control of normal and abnormal human movement.
Additional Information
Program Director
Lisa Griffin