September 8, 2025
Lisa Lopez Snyder
Two doctoral students in The Ohio State University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences — Matthew Paponetti, PT, DPT, and Ben Reader, PT, DPT — were among 25 doctoral students and candidates who received a $7,500 promotion of doctoral studies scholarship from the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research.
The prestigious scholarships recognize the work of highly qualified individuals who are committed to pursuing a career in research, says Paul A. Rockar, Jr., PT, DPT, MS, FAPTA, foundation president.
“We are honored to award these scholarships to support the next generation of physical therapy researchers,” he says. “All of our recipients demonstrate promise and dedication to advancing our profession through research and we look forward to seeing their growth as they continue their academic and professional journeys.”
Paponetti’s research, Assessing Function, Body Composition, and Physical Activity in Adolescents with Obesity on Anti-Obesity Medications: A Physical Therapy Perspective, received the APTA Pediatrics Award, which is generously supported by the APTA Pediatrics Endowment Fund.
Reader’s work, “Advancing Physical Therapy for Children with Congenital Heart Defects,” received the Scot C. Irwin Award, which is generously supported by the APTA Academy of Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Physical Therapy Human Performance Endowment Fund.