Dr Paul Watson

Paul completed his Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Sydney in 2013. With over a decade of professional experience, he has specialised as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist in rehabilitation and physical activity of spinal cord injury and stroke. His therapeutic background encompasses roles as both a therapist and operations manager within the neurological injury/illness space and within the Australian healthcare system. He has trained in various therapeutic programs both domestically and internationally.

In 2020, Paul commenced his PhD studies, having been awarded the Spinal Cord Injuries Australia Postgraduate Research Scholarship. He earned his PhD in 2024, receiving aThesis Excellence Award from the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney. His doctoral research explored current behavioural patterns of physical activity among individuals with spinal cord injuries, identifying both barriers and facilitators to engagement. He developed and proposed a behavioural model grounded in theory and behaviour change frameworks aimed at improving physical activity levels in this population. Paul has been involved with numerous research projects in The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitative Research and Neuroscience Research Australia.

His active involvement in various executive committees further demonstrates Paul's commitment to spinal cord injury physical activity and rehabilitation. Additionally, he has presented his research extensively, delivering numerous oral presentations and facilitating workshops at both local and international conferences. 

Paul's expertise extends beyond his clinical and research roles. His experience in higher education, having taught for over seven years at the tertiary level, and his Associate Fellowship in with the Higher Education Association demonstrates his commitment to education and professional development.