Stephanie DeLuca

Stephanie DeLuca, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at Virginia Tech with appointments in the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC, the School of Neuroscience (College of Science), and the Department of Pediatrics (School of Medicine). She serves as Co-Director and Director of the Neuromotor Research Clinic and leads pioneering research in pediatric neurorehabilitation.

Dr. DeLuca's research focuses on intensive neurorehabilitation therapies such as Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and ACQUIRE Therapy, aimed at improving motor function in children with cerebral palsy, stroke, and genetic disorders. Her work emphasizes evidence-based, high-dose interventions and has been supported by major NIH-funded multisite trials. She has played a key role in global health initiatives, training therapists in Sub-Saharan Africa and Vietnam.

Her recent publications highlight the efficacy of intensive rehabilitation, the development of therapeutic frameworks, and ethical considerations in access to care. These studies span disciplines including neuroscience, occupational therapy, behavioral science, and global health, with recurring themes in motor learning, clinical trial design, and implementation science.

• Outstanding Research Mentor, VTC School of Medicine, 2019
• Outstanding Graduate Student, Developmental Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2002

Dr. DeLuca has mentored numerous students and professionals, served as Co-PI and site PI on large-scale clinical trials, and contributed to national efforts such as the National Pediatric Rehabilitation Resource Center (C-PROGRESS). She has held leadership roles in the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy & Developmental Medicine, advocating for improved care pathways and treatment outcomes.

She leads the DeLuca Lab and the Neuromotor Research Clinic, which are central to advancing pediatric rehabilitation science. Her team conducts clinical trials, develops training programs, and works toward precision rehabilitation models that integrate interdisciplinary knowledge and community input to empower individuals and families affected by neuromotor impairments.