Geetanjali Gera is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Kentucky. As a physical therapist and a movement scientist, Geetanjali’s research goal is to understand the underlying mechanisms behind motor control deficits to advance neurorehabilitation interventions. Her graduate school training in the Motor Control laboratory directed by Dr. John Scholz at the University of Delaware honed her expertise in the Uncontrolled Manifold Analysis (UCM), an analytical approach used to quantify coordination of multiple degrees of freedom, like joint angles. Her post-doctoral training with Dr. Fay Horak at the Oregon Health & Science University has provided her with expertise in assessing postural control deficits, specifically those related to neurodegenerative diseases.  

She currently directs the Neuromotor Control and Neurorehab Laboratory. She is employing her training from graduate and post-graduate work to investigate a critical, yet unexplored, area of research—the changes in multi-joint coordination deficits in postural flexibility and postural instability. An improved understanding of these factors is critical for improving balance rehabilitation in elderly individuals and people with neurodegenerative diseases. Along with this, she collaborates with neurologists and neurosurgeons in assessing posture and mobility deficits using wearable sensors.

Geetanjali loves poetry, art and hiking outdoors. She truly values the love and support of her family members in India. She wants to encourage girls/women in the STEM field and promote diversity and inclusivity.

Education