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By Alex Branch

Yasser Salem, PhD, PT, has been awarded the 2016 Outstanding Physical Therapy Researcher Award by the Texas Physical Therapy Association, the second time in three years that a UNT Health Science Center professor has received the honor.

Dr. Salem, Interim Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy, received the award at the association’s annual conference Oct. 27-30 in Fort Worth.

Dr. Salem was honored for his body of research that includes grant funding, publications, and national and international presentations, and for demonstrating continuity of professional commitment to the field of physical therapy and rehabilitation.

“I am thrilled that my research has been recognized and regarded favorably by the Texas Physical Therapy Association,” Dr. Salem said. “Receiving the award has deepened my commitment to continue my research and publishing in the field of physical therapy, particularly in the area of neuro and pediatric rehabilitation.”

Howe Liu, PhD, MPT, an HSC Professor of Physical Therapy, was named Outstanding Physical Therapy Researcher in 2014.

Nicoleta Bugnariu, PhD, PT, Interim Dean of the School of Health Professions, said the Physical Therapy Department was privileged to have Dr. Salem among its faculty.

“He distinguished himself as one of only a handful of physical therapists who holds board clinical certifications in both pediatric and neurological specialties,” she said. “An effective and appreciated educator and prolific researcher, his work has impacted the quality of life of children and adults with neurological disorders and inspired generations of students to be great therapists.”

Retired HSC professor Venita Lovelace-Chandler, PhD, PT, also was honored at the conference for service in the field of physical therapy. Dr. Lovelace-Chandler practiced in pediatrics for more than 40 years and has taught pediatrics at the professional and post-professional educational levels.

Michael Connors, PT, DPT, a UNTHSC Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy, serves as TPTA President and presented the awards.

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