Physical Therapy Research Symposium 2026

Schedule at a Glance (Eligible for 3 hrs of continuing professional development)

4:00 – 5:00 PM (EACPHS Auditorium, Commons)
Keynote Address – “Stronger Together: Technology and Physical Therapy Advancing Recovery”
Arun Jayaraman, PT, PhD. Scientific Chair of Technology & Innovation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

5:00 – 5:30 PM
Reception (Light Refreshments)

5:30 – 7:00 PM
Student Research Presentations
(Doctor of Physical Therapy Graduating Class)

The Physical Therapy Research Symposium 2026, hosted by Wayne State University’s Physical Therapy Program, brings together students, faculty, and the broader academic community to explore the evolving intersection of healthcare and technology.

The event will feature a keynote address (4:00 PM) by Arun Jayaraman, Scientific Chair of Technology & Innovation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and Professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

In his talk, “Stronger Together: Technology and Physical Therapy Advancing Recovery,” Dr. Jayaraman will present a forward-looking perspective on how wearable devices, robotics, and data-driven approaches are transforming rehabilitation practice. Drawing on both clinical experience and translational research, he will highlight how technology can extend the reach of clinicians, personalize recovery, and improve patient outcomes across diverse populations.

Following the keynote, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with research presentations from graduating Doctor of Physical Therapy students (5:30 to 7:00 PM), showcasing innovative projects spanning clinical practice, human performance, and rehabilitation science.

There will be a short reception with light refreshments from 5:00 to 5:30 PM.

This symposium is open to students, alumni, faculty, clinicians, and researchers across disciplines—including health sciences, engineering, and data science—who are interested in the future of technology-enabled healthcare.