Professor Paul Hodges from UQ’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences has been awarded an honorary doctorate from Ghent University in Belgium.
Ghent University’s honorary doctorate degrees recognise individuals for their exceptional scientific and social merits.
This marks Professor Hodges’ fourth doctorate, received in recognition of his groundbreaking research into the physiology of movement control and its relation to pain and rehabilitation.
His work has changed understanding of why people move differently when they have pain, which has been translated this into effective treatments for pain, and is changing how we understand the mechanisms for why people have pain.
“It is humbling to receive an honorary doctorate from my peers at Ghent University,” Professor Hodges said.
“I feel very honoured that the impact of my research on science and the management of patients with pain has been recognised in this way.
In their citation, the University praised Professor Hodges as “a pioneer who shifts boundaries, a visionary who always seems and indeed proves to be ahead.”
Professor Hodges is one of the most cited researchers in rehabilitation and physiotherapy worldwide.
He has received numerous national and international research awards, including the International Society for the Study of Lumbar Spine Prize five times, which is the most renowned award for spine research.
He is also the first physiotherapist appointed as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science.
Head of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Professor Sandy Brauer congratulated Professor Hodges on his fourth doctorate.
“This is an incredible achievement and reflects Professor Hodges’ standing as an international thought leader in neuroscience, physiotherapy and allied health,” Professor Brauer said.
Professor Hodges is one of 6 academics to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Ghent this year.
Every year, on the second last Friday of March, Ghent University celebrates its birthday with a solemn session in the Aula and the presentation of honorary doctorates.
More information on the announcement of Professor Hodges’ honorary doctorate can be viewed via the Ghent University ceremony video.
