Rehabilitation Science
The PhD in Rehabilitation Science is a unique program not offered at any other University of California campus. We train aspiring scientists to propel the field of rehabilitation science forward using innovative and transformational approaches, from utilizing novel animal models to study the impacts of aging on functional mobility, to developing new tools for monitoring and enhancing physical activity. Our faculty have a wide range of expertise and come from applied research fields in health sciences, social sciences, engineering, neuroscience, and health services outcomes. Students gain not only a strong theoretical foundation in the sciences and research, but also have the opportunity to simultaneously translate that knowledge into clinical practice while fostering a commitment to the community and social justice.
Specialization Areas
A central goal of the program is to capitalize on the interdisciplinary nature of UCSF and offer an academic experience that integrates multiple disciplines. PhD students select one of the following specialized training areas:
Musculoskeletal biomechanics
Musculoskeletal biomechanics is one of the foundations of rehabilitation science. Within this specialization, new investigators are trained on the latest advancements in the field and are prepared for careers in research in academia and industry.
Neuroscience
The neuroscience track offers a clinically-focused pathway addressing neural injury and neurodegenerative disease, as well as a lab-based translational research pathway. New investigators in the lab utilize clinically relevant models of neurodegeneration to address mechanisms underlying activity-based restoration of function.
The Rehabilitation Science program office is located at the Mission Bay campus. Visit the program website for more information.
The Rehabilitation Science PhD program is offered by the UCSF Graduate Division, administered by the UCSF School of Medicine, and delivered by faculty members in the UCSF School of Medicine and at San Francisco State University.
