Gino Panza

Gino Panza is an Assistant Professor within the Department of Occupational Therapy at Wayne State University's Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. He also serves as a Health Science Specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs John D. Dingell Medical Center and holds affiliations with Wayne State University's Department of Physiology and Department of Veterans Affairs.

• Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Science (2017), George Mason University
• M.A. in Exercise Physiology (2013), Central Michigan University
• B.A. in Exercise Science (2010), Adrian College

Dr. Panza specializes in Clinical Exercise and Applied Physiology, focusing on Intermittent Hypoxia Therapy for neurological conditions like Spinal Cord Injury and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. His research employs advanced methods including Near Infrared Spectroscopy, Heart Rate Variability Analysis, and Physical Performance Assessment.

Recent publications demonstrate expertise in respiratory plasticity, autonomic dysfunction, and cardiovascular rehabilitation for spinal cord injured populations. Key collaborators include Jason Mateika and Safwan Badr. Notable awards include the Experimental Biology Usha Award and multiple VA Research Grants.

Dr. Panza mentors students like Lexi Soltesz, recipient of the 2025 Anthony F. DiMarco MD Award. He teaches graduate courses in Neuroscience for Health Care Professionals, Occupational Therapy Research III, and Motor Control.