Kessler Foundation, in partnership with the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, a Select Medical hospital, offers a unique postdoctoral fellowship program, the Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Program. Our goal is to prepare the next generation of leaders to advance and shape the future of rehabilitation science.
Kessler Foundation has trained over 125 fellows in 30 years, with many moving on to research scientist roles. Recent fellows have published peer-reviewed articles, secured significant grant funding for their research, contributed to new rehabilitation interventions, and helped drive clinical innovations that enhance outcomes for people with neurological and physical disabilities.
Kessler Foundation's Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Program stands out due to its distinctive features:
Tailored to align with each trainee’s research interests and career goals
Guidance from experts in biomedical, clinical, and social research
Access to leading rehabilitation researchers across multiple institutions
Training in grant writing, publishing, and leadership skills
Emphasis on bridging the gap between scientific discovery and clinical application
Opportunities to utilize cutting-edge technology and methodologies
Collaboration with scientists, clinicians, and industry professionals
Addressing disparities in rehabilitation outcomes across diverse populations
- Doctoral degree should be in a field relevant to rehabilitation
- PhD candidates planning dissertation research on topics relevant to rehabilitation are also encouraged to apply
- Non-U.S. citizens are eligible to apply provided they can be lawfully employed in the U.S.
- An excellent academic record
- PhD candidates should possess proficiency in fundamental research methodologies, with a strong preference for those who have published work or a publishable dissertation
- MD candidates should have at least initial research experience, demonstrated through participation in research projects
- An expressed interest in pursuing a career in rehabilitation, particularly an academic or research career
Postdoctoral Fellowships Available at Kessler Foundation
Center for Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research
Researchers are developing new treatments to improve learning, memory, fatigue, and social cognition so individuals of all ages can remain productive at home, in school, at work, and in their communities. Scientist are advancing strategies to strengthen memory and daily functioning in older adults, including those with mild cognitive impairment. In addition, they are examining cognitive changes in people with chronic spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis to better define specific challenges and identify potential risk factors. Learn More.
Program Leader: Nancy Chiaravalloti, PhD
Center for Traumatic Brain Injury Research
People with traumatic brain injury often face persistent challenges with thinking, learning, and memory that disrupt daily life. These difficulties can limit participation in school, work, and community activities, place added strain on caregivers, and diminish overall quality of life. The Center for Traumatic Brain Injury Research at Kessler Foundation is committed to developing innovative strategies to restore cognitive function and help individuals with TBI thrive, enabling them to live more independent, confident, and fulfilling lives. Learn More.
Program Leader: Nancy Chiaravalloti, PhD
Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research
We improve quality of life for people with motor disabilities by conducting translational research and creating assistive technologies that enhance mobility and motor functions, allowing them to engage in school, work, and community activities. Learn More.
Program Leader: Guang Yue, PhD
Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center For Spinal Stimulation
By combining electrical stimulation of the spinal cord with task-specific training, scientists at the Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation are helping people with spinal cord injury regain function and independence. Learn More.
Program Leader: Gail Forrest, PhD
Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research
Living with spinal cord injury presents a multitude of challenges, from maintaining health to achieving maximum independence. Addressing these challenges involves collaborating with individuals, families, and clinicians to create evidence-based solutions that support independence, well-being, and community engagement. Our main goal is to find ways to help people live and thrive beyond their injury. Learn More.
Program Leader: Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD
Center for Stroke Rehabilitation Research
From research to real-world application, the Center is dedicated to enhancing stroke rehabilitation and community reintegration. This is achieved by advancing our understanding of spatial neglect detection and treatment, expanding insights into reading deficits, improving medication adherence, and introducing innovative interventions within in-patient rehabilitation. Learn More.
Program Leaders:
Peii Chen, PhD
Olga Boukrina, PhD
Center for Autism Research
Kessler Foundation researchers develop practical, evidence-based approaches that support communication, confidence, and independence for people on the autism spectrum, with particular focus on the critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. Learn More.
Program Leader: Helen Genova, PhD
Find out more and submit your application for Kessler Foundation's Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Program.
