Paulo Teixeira, PT, MS

What year did you start the program? 2017

What are your prior degrees and with which institutions?
BA, Physical Therapy, Ribeirão Preto University, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil, 2004
Orthopedic and Muscle-Skeleton PT Specialist, COHEN Institute of Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine, São Paulo and São Marcos University, São Paulo, Brazil, 2006
MS, Health and Rehabilitation Sciences with a concentration in PT, University of Pittsburgh, 2008

What is your current research setting, mentor’s name and name of lab?
Mentor: Felipe Fregni, MD, PhD, MPH, Director of the Laboratory of Neuromodulation at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Harvard Medical School
Lab: Laboratory of Neuromodulation and Center for Clinical Research Learning at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital

What do you think is special about the PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences program here at the MGH Institute?
I believe the professional diversity that supports the program makes the PhD experience at the MGH Institute unique. Having different rehabilitation specialists together during classes and seminar discussions, consequently shows us different perspectives on every topic, which I believe it enriches our learning experience.  The individual attention of the faculty to our concerns and directions also are a positive aspect of this program. Not to mention that being in Boston and the MGH Institute, the amount of networking and potential opportunities to develop our academic careers are endless. 

Why did you choose to come to this program rather than a doctoral research program in your specific profession?
I believe that working in an interdisciplinary setting, either in academics or clinical, is ultimately the setting that has the greater potential to thrive. Different backgrounds, different professions, when working together for the same ideal, can achieve greater success. The PhD program at the MGH Institute has the interdisciplinary characteristic that I always believed in. 

What are your goals for the future after you graduate?
I hope to work in an academic setting that I can fully develop my potential and I hope to contribute to rehabilitation science and the education of rehabilitation specialists in a meaningful way.