Sophia Hulbert

Academic profile

Dr Sophia Hulbert

Lecturer in Physiotherapy
School of Health Professions (Faculty of Health)

The Global Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. Sophia's work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

Goal 03: SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-beingGoal 04: SDG 4 - Quality Education

About Sophia

Clinical Academic Physiotherapist working for both the University of Plymouth and the National Health Service as well as in the private sector. I have a focus in the neurological field across both academic activity and clinical practice specialising in the rehabilitation of Parkinson’s and complex Neurological conditions. 

My research work focuses on the role of physiotherapy and the performing arts for neurological conditions and frailty (see Research for more details) as well as the role of self-management in promoting and achieving a fulfilling, positive and enriching quality of life for those living with long-term neurological conditions.

Alongside my roles as a Researcher and Physiotherapist, I am also the co-founder of the internationally recognised, evidenced based dance for Parkinson's programme -Parkinson's Dance Science (PDS). Within its ten-year history, PDS is unique it is interplay of dance, rehabilitation and research, with the influence of this work being recognised through a the 'Once Dance UK 2022 Nomination'. 

I have a dedication and passion for implementing novel and exciting research and rehabilitation into practice, presenting work nationally and internationally across the scientific, health and artistic communities. I strive to better understand how the arts and rehabilitation sciences can combine to provide fulfilling experiences for people living with long-term health conditions.


Teaching

In addition to my clinical skills and leadership experience, I have also continually sought to share my knowledge and experience through teaching practice. 

I currently hold a Lectureship at the University of Plymouth on both the undergraduate and postgraduate Physiotherapy courses as well as Module leadership of the postgraduate course ADV768 Advance Assessment and Management in Complex Neurology. My novel and innovative approach to learning and dissemination has gained national recognition and am often invited to teach and mentor in the practice of arts in health across the country.

I have successfully supervised four MSc students to completion and am currently supervising three further MSc students and a PhD Student at the University of Exeter. I have also supervised many students on clinical placement throughout my career and greatly enjoy using my clinical experience and knowledge from both the health and arts sectors to inspire others, whilst finding a shared learning experience extremely rewarding and fulfilling.

I have mentored numerous dance professional in the context of Dance for Health and greatly enjoy the interplay of health, academic and arts based knowledge sharing in these contexts. 


Contact Sophia

InterCity Place, Plymouth Railway Station, North Road East,, Plymouth, PL4 6AB
+44 1752 588877