Joshua Burns

Professor Joshua Burns is an Honorary Professor at the University of Sydney's Faculty of Medicine and Health and holds an Endowed Chair position at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in the United States. His research focuses on neuromuscular disorders, particularly Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, with extensive work on gait analysis, orthotics, and clinical outcome measures. He leads several major research initiatives including the 1000 Norms Project, CMT Pediatric Scale development, and the Inherited Neuropathy Consortium.

Professor Burns' research interests center on understanding and improving outcomes for patients with neuromuscular disorders, particularly Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. His work spans gait disorders, genetic diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, neuromuscular diseases, and orthopaedics. He employs approaches including clinical trials, rehabilitation, and statistics/research design to advance knowledge in these areas. His research themes encompass Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health, Neurosciences and Mental Health, Lifespan, and Musculoskeletal Health.

Analysis of Professor Burns' recent publications reveals a strong focus on Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease research, with significant contributions to understanding genetic mechanisms, developing clinical outcome measures, and evaluating therapeutic interventions. His work spans both basic science investigations of genetic mutations and clinical applications including orthotics, gait analysis, and quality of life assessment. A notable trend is the development and validation of patient-reported outcome measures, particularly for pediatric populations.

• Fulbright Scholar
• Young Tall Poppy Science Award
• Supervisor of The Year | SUPRA

Professor Burns actively mentors research students, with Monica MARZOUK currently investigating fatigue in pediatric patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease. He leads the Humpty Dumpty Gait Lab, Neuropathy Research Group, and Clinical Outcome Measures initiatives. His research program has secured significant funding for projects including the 1000 Norms Project, CMT Pediatric Scale development, and the Inherited Neuropathy Consortium, contributing substantially to the field of neuromuscular disorders.