William Thompson, PT, DPT, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the IU physical therapy program.
Thompson’s research expertise is in bone mechanobiology, where his work examines the mechanisms through which the skeleton senses and responds to exercise. Current projects are investigating how gabapentin, a commonly used antiepileptic and pain modifying drug, influences bone structure and function. Thompson’s group also studies the effects of mechanical force on cancer cells and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells.
Prior to beginning his appointment as a faculty member within the School of Health & Human Sciences, Thompson graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry at Lee University in Cleveland, TN. He went on to earn both his doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree (2007) and his Ph.D. (2011) from the University of Delaware. He completed postdoctoral training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine.
Thompson’s contributions have been recognized by local, national, and international awards from institutions including the APTA Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, the APTA Section on Geriatrics, the Orthopedic Research Society, the American Society of Bone and Mineral Research, and the Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health.
Thompson focuses on the function of extracellular matrix molecules and voltage sensitive calcium channels in musculoskeletal mechanotransduction with the goal of developing novel treatments for musculoskeletal diseases.
Thompson’s research is highly regarded and well-funded. Contact him if you are a student interested in his area of study.
