Research

The University of Toronto Department of Physical Therapy seeks to advance the teaching, science and practice of physical therapy as an essential part of individual health and inclusive, flourishing communities.  One of our strategic priorities is strengthening our shared scientific purpose. Our goal is to continually strengthen our already exceptional science, while advancing its social impact.  We will develop a shared focus for research and knowledge translation in physical therapy that supports function, health, well-being and societal participation, innovative approaches to practice, and models that foster greater access to high quality care.

Our research is supported by exceptional faculty.

Five faculty currently hold prestigious research chairs and education scholarship fellowships:

  • Barbara Gibson Bloorview Kids Foundation Chair in Childhood Disability Studies
  • Nancy Salbach Toronto Rehabilitation Institute Chair at the University of Toronto
  • Kelly O’Brien Canada Research Chair - Tier 2, Specialty: Episodic Disability and Rehabilitation
  • Kristin Musselman Canada Research Chair - Tier 2, Specialty: multi-morbidity and complex rehabilitation
  • Euson Yeung University of Toronto Teaching Fellowship, Topic: Learner Assessment

The research activity also supports the research and learning of the MScPT student in a number of ways: MScPT research projects, curricular content (incorporating research results so that students have the most current evidence that is relevant to practice), curricular evaluation, development of cases and unique training opportunities.

Annual Report Infographic

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Highlights

Members & Fellows
Barbara Gibson and Kelly O’Brien are members of the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists and Susan Jaglal is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences.
Journals
Faculty in the department publish approximately 100 peer-reviewed journal articles each year.