Taylor Dick

Associate Professor Taylor Dick is a leading researcher at the University of Queensland's School of Biomedical Sciences, where she serves as Director of the Neuromuscular Biomechanics Laboratory. Her interdisciplinary work bridges biomechanics, bio-inspired assistive devices, and neuromuscular physiology, addressing fundamental questions about movement's role in evolution, health, and disease. She completed her PhD at Simon Fraser University (2016) and postdoctoral training at the University of North Carolina (2016-17) before joining UQ in 2017.

• Education: PhD in Biomechanics (Simon Fraser University, 2016)
• Key Roles: Associate Professor, Director of Higher Degree Research, International Society of Biomechanics Executive Council Member

Her research integrates musculoskeletal anatomy, neural control, and biomechanics to study human and animal locomotion. By combining experimental paradigms with modeling techniques, her team investigates muscle-tendon dynamics, locomotor adaptations, and assistive device optimization. Recent work focuses on gait disruptions in motor neuron disease, aging-related muscle changes, and VR-based balance assessment.

Latest publications highlight trends in muscle energetics, exoskeleton design, and comparative biomechanics. Her team's interdisciplinary composition spans biomechanists, physiologists, engineers, and computer scientists, reflecting her collaborative approach.

• Scientific Awards:
  • 2024 Queensland Tall Poppy Award
  • 2024 International Union of Physiologists Junior Faculty Award
  • 2024 International Society of Electrophysiology and Kinesiology Kevin P. Granata Award
  • 2021 International Society of Biomechanics Jaquelin Perry Emerging Scientist Award

Taylor actively supervises 18 HDR students and has advised 16 to completion. She co-developed the BRInC program to promote STEM engagement for girls. Her research is funded by competitive grants exceeding $3.6 million, including projects on wearable robotics for ALS patients and kangaroo locomotion.