The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, invites applications for both PhD positions and postdoctoral fellowships in rehabilitation science focused on advancing neuromotor control, movement analysis, and rehabilitation technologies.

PhD Program in Physical Rehabilitation Science

We are seeking motivated PhD applicants to join our interdisciplinary program that prepares the next generation of rehabilitation scientists. Our comprehensive program draws on nationally and internationally recognized research expertise across multiple departments within the University of Maryland System.

Research Areas:

  • Neuromotor Control and Rehabilitation – Motor learning, balance and gait training, neuroplasticity-promoting interventions
  • Musculoskeletal Performance and Rehabilitation – Exercise interventions, muscle physiology, cardiometabolic health
  • Rehabilitation Engineering and Robotics – Multi-joint rehabilitation robots, assistive technology development
  • Community-Based Rehabilitation – Field-based research, mobility assessment, environmental interventions
  • Rehabilitation Health Services – Healthcare systems analysis, epidemiological studies, policy evaluation

UMANRRT Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

Multiple postdoctoral fellowships are available through the U.S. National Institute of Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) University of Maryland Advanced Neuromotor Rehabilitation Research Training (UMANRRT) Program.

Research Focus Areas:

  • Biomechanics, neuroimaging, sensorimotor and cognitive characterizations related to neuromotor control in neurological disorders, musculoskeletal injuries, or aging populations
  • Rehabilitation robotics, machine learning, and signal processing for improving neuromotor control and rehabilitation outcomes
  • Interventional studies examining the interaction of neuromotor, biomechanical, cognitive, socio-economic factors, motor learning, and behavioral processes

Application Information

For PhD Applications: Applications must be submitted through the online application at https://www.graduate.umaryland.edu/admissions/how-to-apply/. Submit CV, 1-page statement of research interests and career goals, official transcripts, and three letters of reference. Applications with assistantship consideration due December 1st, 2025 for fall 2026 admission. Rolling admissions accepted until April 1st, 2026. For questions, contact Kelly Westlake, .

For Postdoctoral Fellowship Applications: Submit cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Li-Qun Zhang, and Kelly Westlake, . Start date is immediate or negotiable.

Research Environment

Our program leverages state-of-the-art facilities including motion capture systems, force platforms, electromyography, virtual reality systems, neuroimaging (MRI, EEG), rehabilitation robotics, and muscle physiology laboratories. Students and fellows benefit from collaborations with the University of Maryland Medical System, bioengineering faculty at University of Maryland College Park, and established industry partnerships.

The program is committed to inclusive excellence and attracts trainees from diverse disciplines and backgrounds. We provide comprehensive support through mentorship, professional development opportunities, and access to interdisciplinary training programs including the Institute for Clinical & Translational Research and specialized centers of excellence.

Equal Opportunity: The University of Maryland, Baltimore is an equal opportunity institution. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized and are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students and fellows.