Former Postdoctoral Researchers

Garret Burks (2021)

His primary research interests related to the use of simulation-based musculoskeletal modeling tools in the design and assessment of assistive devices.

NIH Post Doc, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA

Jessica Aviles (2022)

Jessica has specialized in analyzing human performance outside of traditional laboratory settings, balance training among older adults in retirement communities, assessed lower limb amputee gait on various complex terrains, and analyzed the performance of low-cost prosthetic knee joints for developing countries.

Her research focuses on investigating the use of powered and passive exoskeleton devices for rehabilitation purposes to improve an individual’s mobility and quality of life.

Assistance Professor, Clemson University, Clemson, SC

Dechristian Franca Barbieri (2023)

B.S. in Physical Therapy – Uri Campus de Erechim RS, Brazil (2006 to 2011)
M.S. in Physical Therapy – Federal University of Sao Carlos SP, Brazil (2011 to 2013)
Ph.D. in Physical Therapy – Federal University of Sao Carlos SP, Brazil (2013 to 2017)
Postdoctoral in Physical Therapy – Federal University of Sao Carlos SP, Brazil (2019 to 2021)
Internship periods at Gavle University, Sweden (from Sept to Nov 2012), and at Virginia Tech, US (Jan to Nov 2016).

Dechristian started working as a postdoctoral researcher in the BEST lab in January 2022.
Dechristian has specialized in analyzing posture, muscular activity, body composition and physical activity of office workers. He also has experience in interventions in the real work environment to prevent musculoskeletal symptoms in this population. His current research focuses on the evaluation and implementation of the exoskeleton in the context of healthcare workers, to bring clarity if this wearable technology can help to reduce musculoskeletal problems.

Research Assistant Professor, Clemson University, Clemson, SC

Former Ph.D. Students

Former Master’s Students