Thomas Novack

Thomas Novack is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham's School of Medicine. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology from the University of Tennessee System and an MA in Experimental Psychology from Wake Forest University. His research focuses on neurorehabilitation outcomes following traumatic brain injury (TBI), with interdisciplinary collaborations across neuroscience, psychology, and public health.

Dr. Novack's research examines cognitive recovery trajectories, medical decision-making capacity, driving rehabilitation, sleep disorders, and long-term psychosocial outcomes in TBI populations. His longitudinal studies utilize large-scale datasets like the TBI Model Systems National Database to identify predictors of functional recovery and comorbidities.

His publications demonstrate consistent focus on translating clinical findings into rehabilitation frameworks, with emphasis on personalized interventions, outcome measurement, and quality-of-life improvements. Research frequently addresses both acute and chronic phases of TBI recovery across diverse demographics.

• Awards: Roger G. Barker Award (2015), Fellow distinctions (2001, 2006, 2011), Non-Physician Healthcare Provider of the Year (2006)
• Advising: Mentored 11+ graduate students in neuropsychology and rehabilitation research
• Grants: Principal investigator for federally funded projects including the TBI Model System (Administration for Community Living) and DOD-funded studies on neuroplasticity and dementia care

Dr. Novack directs research initiatives within UAB's Comprehensive Neuroscience Center and maintains active clinical research programs focused on evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.