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About the MOVCENTR

The Center of Research in Human Movement Variability (MOVCENTR) at UNO was established in 2014 through a $10.1 million grant awarded by the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE). In 2019 the MOVCENTR was awarded a $10.3 million grant for Phase II of the COBRE.

Mission

The MOVCENTR fosters productive research within our thematic scientific focus by producing highly promising young faculty striving for independent research. Each research project is supported by the Center to achieve this mission. The motor related disorders encompassed by these projects illustrate our overall vision for a research center striving to generate high impact, high-quality research in human movement variability and emphasizes the clinical translational nature of our mentoring approach.

Dr. Nate Hunt presenting his slipping perturbation device.

MOVCENTR Research

The research is focused on variability related to movement disorders. The scientists in the MOVCENTR use methods with many interacting parts to study the cause and effects of diseases. Through research, the creation of assistive devices, and nonlinear analysis, our scientists are able to study interventions and recommendations for rehabilitation processes and clinicians.

Phase II continues with a movement disorders research theme and introduces new research projects to the MOVCENTR. The evolution of new research projects allows further junior investigators the opportunity to be independent researchers. This is done by using their current project data, expanding on their hypothesis and specific aims, and applying for independent federal funding.

Projects

The Phase I projects consisted of six research projects, and 11 pilot projects. Four new projects have been proposed for Phase II. This will include new pilot projects and pilot project mechanisms.

Phase II Research Products

Phase II began in the fall of 2019. We have already had great success as Dr. Jorge Zuniga and Dr. Brian Knarr (Phase I Junior Investigator) received an R01 for $1.5 million.

Phase I Research Products

Dr. Sara Myers received an R01 titled, Improving Mobility in Peripheral Artery Disease Using Ankle Foot Orthosis. Dr. Myers was awarded $2 million in NIH funding for this project.

Dr. Brian Knarr received an R15 titled, Impact of Assistive Device Use During Treadmill and Overground Walking Post-stroke. Dr. Knarr was awarded half a million dollars in funding for this project.

Dr. Nate Hunt received an R15 titled, Mechanisms of Fall Resistance to Diverse Slipping Conditions. Dr. Hunt was awarded half a million dollars in funding for this project.

Each project is not only changing the research culture at UNO but is providing opportunities for students to receive hands-on research experience. The students are able to learn how to work with patients and subjects, the importance of informed consent, and collect and analyze data.

Division of Biomechanics and Research Development

All COBRE research is housed and performed under the MOVCENTR. All other state and federal research is performed in the Department of Biomechanics. Both units are under the umbrella of the Division of Biomechanics and Research Development.

Dr. Knarr presenting the cane designed by his team.