Integrating knowledge from multiple fields such as neuroscience and exercise science, this group of projects hope to generate knowledge which optimises the way we rehabilitate and prevent injury.

Highly-specialised expertise is applied to matters such as understanding how the central nervous system responds to exercise and motor learning.

The ability to perform controlled movements on command and the science which underpins this is a theme that crosses several projects.

Other topics covered include analysing muscle and tendon elasticity, along with power output, cortical excitability during muscle movement, and responses to electro-physiological techniques.

Explore our groups

The main interest of the Launikonis Group is Excitation-Contraction Coupling and Calcium Regulation in Skeletal Muscle. The focus is to understand the mechanisms that (i) control calcium release during activity in muscle, and (ii) maintain calcium homeostasis in skeletal muscle fibres.

Meet some of our researchers

Professor Timothy Carroll
Work spans the fields of exercise science and integrative neuroscience, with a focus on determining how the central nervous system is reorganised as a consequence of motor learning and exercise.
Professor Glen Lichtwark
Particularly interested in how elasticity in muscles and tendons in the lower leg and foot influence the function of these muscles and what impact this has on the ability to generate force or perform controlled movements.

Professor Andrew Cresswell
Research interest is in the integration of neurophysiology and biomechanics (neuromechanics) to investigate the control of human movement.
Professor Sandy Brauer
Research to improve balance and gait in older adults and those with neurological disorders. Sandy is Head of UQ's School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
Professor Paul Hodges
Director of the NHMRC Centre for Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health at UQ, Paul is a recognised world leader in movement control, pain and rehabilitation.