The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program (CU PT) welcomes Andrew C. Smith, PT, DPT, PhD as Assistant Professor. Smith began his appointment on August 17, 2020.

Smith is currently completing work on his R03 grant from the NIH National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research concerning the use of MRI images and machine learning in the management of spinal cord injury. He will continue to participate in clinical research at Craig Hospital and also assist CU PT in strengthening their ties with the RMR VAMC Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Center.

Reflecting upon his recent academic appointment, Smith says that, "It is an absolute honor to be a part of the CU PT family.  I am impressed with the level of excellence that the CU PT program embodies on all fronts: DPT and PhD education, research and scholarship, clinical practice, and service to the local and global community."

Smith comes to the University of Colorado from Regis University School of Physical Therapy, where he was an Assistant Professor. He was awarded the 2019 Regis University School of Physical Therapy Excellence in Teaching Award and 2020 Regis University Rueckert Hartman College of Health Professions Junior Faculty Teaching Award. Smith obtained his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Washington, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience from Northwestern University. He has 12 years of experience as a physical therapist.

Program Director Michael Harris-Love, PT, MPT, DSc, FGSA noted, “Dr. Smith has a great mix of skills that include conducting innovative research within the field of neurorehabilitation and establishing genuine connections with entry-level students. I look forward to his contributions to our DPT and PhD Programs as well as our efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the profession.”

Get to know more about Andrew Smith
Where are you originally from? As a U.S. Air Force kid, I moved around every 1 to 2 years growing up, but the state of Washington is where I’ve spent the most time, collectively.

What are you most looking forward to in becoming a part of the CU PT family? I am most looking forward to learning from the quality faculty, staff, and students here at CU PT.

What is your specialization/interest? I have practiced clinically and been involved with research with individuals with spinal cord injury since 2010.

What are your hobbies? I am a self-professed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu nerd and a novice mountain biker.

Any family/pets? My wife, Hana, is a CU School of Medicine faculty as well, and we have two daughters and a son (7, 5, 3 years old). No pets yet but a dog is in our future.