Joe M. Hart III, PhD ATC
CRA Faculty Investigator, Musculoskeletal
About
Dr. Hart is the Norfleet-Raney Distinguished Professor of Orthopaedics and Vice Chair for Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dr. Hart investigates patient recovery from various lower body musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis, joint injuries, and surgeries such as anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. His primary research focus includes rehabilitation techniques for muscle strengthening, optimizing movement coordination, and functional recovery to promote a return to unrestricted physical activity. His research programs leverage precision measurement instrumentation, analytical techniques, and innovative technologies to facilitate treatment program implementation and healthcare decision-making. Dr. Hart has developed point-of-care research programs that merge with, and inform, clinical practice to facilitate early identification, treatment, and prevention of commonly experienced consequences of musculoskeletal impairments. These point-of-care research programs aim at reducing the risk of re-injury and promoting well-being through the safe engagement in physical activity.
Dr. Hart has over 20 years of musculoskeletal research experience and serves as Principal or co-Principal Investigator on multiple grant awards, contracts, and other research projects and initiatives. In addition, he was awarded fellowship status in the American College of Sports Medicine, the National Athletic Trainers Association, and the National Academy of Kinesiology. He received the 2025 Medal for Distinguished Athletic Training Research from NATA Foundation, and along with two co-founders, was named as one of the 2024 UVA Innovators of the Year award. His professional service includes involvement in multiple research initiatives at UNC, serving as Senior Associate Editor for the Journal of Athletic Training, and 13 years in service and leadership roles with the NATA Foundation, including Vice President for Research Programs.
Education:
- PhD, Kinesiology, University of Virginia
- MS, Athletic Training, West Virginia University
- BS, Sports Medicine, Marietta College