Spotlight: The Movement Science Laboratory

The lab includes many features, such as a wireless virtual reality system, to help researchers conduct in-depth studies of subjects' movements.

Throughout his academic career, Dr. Solnik conducted multidisciplinary research spanning the broad spectrum of movement science, including biomechanics, motor control and neuroscience. Dr. Solnik's research exemplifies his commitment to the interdisciplinary and collaborative study of human movement, that justifies and provides evidence to clinical practice. He pursued research that helps to direct more focused and efficient interventions, ultimately advancing the practice of physical therapy. He received his pre and postdoctoral training in numerous research institutions including University of Southern California, East Carolina University, and Pennsylvania State University. Currently, Dr. Solnik is leading the research agenda of the Physical Therapy Department at the University of North Georgia.

Dr. Solnik is the director of the Movement Science Laboratory (MSL), which is located within the Department of Physical Therapy in the College of Health Sciences and Professions at the University of North Georgia. The MSL is equipped with state-of-the-art devices, including motion capture and virtual reality systems, wireless electromyography, force platforms, and miniature force sensors. One of the goals of Dr. Solnik is to create customized virtual reality applications that allow to induce sensory illusions to diagnose and treat individuals of all ages. Additionally, the cutting edge technology allow researchers to conduct multidisciplinary project to study complex motor behaviors, that can include fine motor skills (i.e., prehension, object manipulation) or whole-body movements (i.e., postural stability, locomotion). The MSL also increases involvements of our students in Department's research agenda and gives them a unique opportunity to have hands-on experience with innovative technology.