Biomechanics
The science of biomechanics has expanded rapidly over the past twenty-five years. Its roots can be traced to various established disciplines including engineering, anatomy, aerospace, rehabilitation, medicine, orthopaedics, sport science, and many others.
Research
Major thrusts include the application of biomechanical principles to motor control and neurological problems, understanding how muscle properties dictate the coordination of movement, exploring the mechanical behavior of musculoskeletal structures at the tissue level, and exploring innovative solutions to orthopaedic problems.
Facilities
The internationally recognized Biomechanics Laboratory houses the majority of the of faculty and graduate student research. These state-of-the-art facilities are expressly designed for the measurement and investigation of human motion in sport, health, and disease.
Seventy-two visiting scholars and researchers from twenty-seven foreign countries have participated in the research programs of the laboratories for periods ranging from two months to two years, and over seventy master's and over seventy doctoral students have completed their degrees using the Biomechanics laboratory to date.
Mentors
Learn more about the faculty members who mentor Biomechanics graduate students at Penn State:
- John H. Challis, Professor of Kinesiology
- Robert B. Eckhardt, Professor of Developmental Genetics and Evolutionary Morphology
- Jinger S. Gottschall, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology
- Stephen J. Piazza, Associate Professor of Kinesiology
- Neil A. Sharkey, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Education; Professor of Kinesiology, Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation
- Vladimir Zatsiorsky, Professor of Kinesiology
Additional faculty
Additional faculty who have an interest in this area:
- Mark L. Latash, Distinguished Professor of Kinesiology
- Robert L. Sainburg, Associate Professor of Kinesiology