Victor Santamaria
From UO Motor Control and Cognition Lab
Contact Information
Phone: 541.346.4144
E-Mail: vsantama@uoregon.edu
Biography
Academic Background
I received my major in Physical Therapy in 2007. After that, I obtained my specialty in Pediatric Physical Therapy from the International University of Catalunya (UIC) and my Neuroscience Master degree from the University of Salamanca (USAL). Additionally, I obtained 60 graduate credits in Neurological Pathology from the University Rey Juan Carlos of Madrid (URJC). I also spent 4 years in the clinical context working with pediatric and adult patients with neurological disorders. I was delegate of the Spanish Society of Pediatric Physical Therapy (SEFIP) in Andalucia before coming to the United States. The aim of my research is motor control of reaching in healthy kids and children with Cerebral Palsy. I am also interested in how these parameters are interrelated with postural stability and what the underlying neural mechanisms are. After my PhD, I plan to continue investigating thoroughly motor control in brain injuries with the main target of evolving future neurological assessments and treatments. Additionally, I want to share and complement research with clinical practice in pediatric neuro-rehabilitation. Currently, I participate as a PhD student in developing a grant from the NIH supervised by Dr. Woollacott and with the collaboration of Dr. Saavedra in the Motor Control and Cognition Lab, which belong to the Department of Human Physiology in the University of Oregon (UO).
Personal Story
I was born in Malaga (Spain) in January 16 in 1984. I have a great relationship with my family and friends. I am sociable, friendly and respectful. Also, I think that work-team is the best way to be successful not only in your job but in life as well. I like sports and especially martial arts. I have been practicing Karate since I was 11 years old, in which I am second Dam black belt.
