Lou J. Soslowsky

Lou J. Soslowsky is the Fairhill Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, serving as Director of Orthopaedic Research, Director of Basic Science Research for the Shoulder and Elbow Service, and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the Perelman School of Medicine. He was reappointed to the Vice Chair position in 2024, demonstrating his continued leadership role. Dr. Soslowsky is also the Founding Director of the Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders (designated as a Type 1 center in 2008) and an Associate Dean for Research Integration at the Perelman School of Medicine.

Dr. Soslowsky earned his B.S. (1986), M.S. (1987), M.Phil (1989), and Ph.D. (1991) in Engineering Mechanics from Columbia University, with doctoral research mentored by Van C. Mow. He later obtained a certificate in Academic Medicine Leadership from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 2008.

Dr. Soslowsky's research focuses on the biomechanics of tendons and ligaments, particularly in the shoulder and elbow. His laboratory investigates the structural, functional, and molecular properties of musculoskeletal tissues, examining how these tissues respond to injury, healing, and aging. Current projects examine collagen organization (particularly Collagen V and XI), the role of decorin and biglycan in tendon healing, exercise effects on tendon adaptation, and advanced imaging techniques for monitoring tissue changes. His work integrates engineering principles with biological approaches to understand tissue mechanics and develop therapeutic strategies for musculoskeletal disorders.

His recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on tendon biology and biomechanics, with particular attention to molecular regulation of tendon healing, collagen organization, and the effects of aging and mechanical loading. His research spans from basic molecular mechanisms to translational applications, often utilizing murine models to investigate tendon development, injury, and repair processes. The interdisciplinary nature of his work bridges engineering, biology, and clinical orthopaedics.

• Founding Director, Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders (Type 1 center designation, 2008)
• Fellow, Institute of Aging, University of Pennsylvania
• Executive Committee, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania

As Director of the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Dr. Soslowsky oversees an active research program with publications spanning from 1987 to 2025 (274 PubMed-listed publications). His laboratory serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research in orthopaedic biomechanics and tissue engineering, bringing together engineers, biologists, and clinicians to address fundamental questions in musculoskeletal science. His work has significant translational implications for understanding and treating tendon injuries, which are common clinical problems affecting millions of people.