Susanne Morton

Susanne Morton is an Associate Professor at the University of Delaware's Department of Physical Therapy within the College of Health Sciences. Her research focuses on mechanisms of motor learning, locomotor adaptation, and neuroplasticity in healthy individuals and those with neurological impairments such as stroke or cerebellar dysfunction. She holds a PhD in Movement Science from Washington University in St. Louis and has held academic appointments at institutions like the University of Maryland School of Medicine and the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.

Educational Background

• Postdoctoral Training: Johns Hopkins University (Neurology)
• PhD: Washington University in St. Louis (Movement Science)
• MS: Washington University in St. Louis (Physical Therapy)
• BS: University of Illinois (Biology)

Research Interests

Dr. Morton's work investigates:
- Interlimb coordination deficits post-stroke
- Motor adaptation mechanisms (cerebellar vs. cortical contributions)
- Non-invasive brain stimulation (e.g., tDCS) for stroke recovery
- Effects of pain and cognition on motor learning in aging populations
- Role of bilateral leg coordination in neurorehabilitation

Grants & Awards

• NIH R01 Grant (2022-2027): Investigating pain-motor learning interactions in older adults
• Delaware Clinical and Translational Research Program Director (2013-2023)
• Patricia Leahy Award (2001) & APTA Foundation Scholarships

Labs & Collaborations

Leads the Rehabilitation and Neuroplasticity Lab focusing on:
- Split-belt treadmill training
- TMS/EEG neurophysiological measures
- Clinical trials for stroke rehabilitation