Rate My Professor Patrick Faulkner

Dr Patrick Faulkner serves as a Lecturer and Course Coordinator in the Clinical Exercise Physiology program within the School of Allied Health and Human Performance, College of Health, at Adelaide University. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (2014), Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Digital Learning) (2023), Divisional Honours (Health Sciences, 1st Class) (2013), Graduate Diploma in Clinical Exercise Physiology (2012), and Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement) (2011), all from the University of South Australia. An Accredited Exercise Physiologist and Accredited Exercise Scientist since 2012 through Exercise and Sports Science Australia, he possesses practical experience with clients having chronic and complex conditions, especially neurological presentations. His clinical practice focuses on the disability sector and online behaviour change interventions. Appointed Lecturer in Clinical Exercise Physiology in 2019, Faulkner teaches and coordinates courses such as Practice Education in Exercise Delivery, Clinical Exercise Honours Project Design, Clinical Studies for Exercise Physiology, Advanced Exercise Assessment and Reasoning, and Clinical Exercise Physiology Practicum, associated with programs including Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology (Honours) and Bachelor of Human Movement.

Faulkner's research interests center on disability and functional capacity, exercise physiology, and neurosciences. His doctoral research examined the impact of illicit drug use on voluntary muscular activation during fatiguing exercise, with further investigations into muscular activation changes linked to neurodegenerative conditions and illicit drugs. Current projects address how exercise enhances health outcomes, builds capacity, promotes community engagement, and supports valued community roles for individuals with disability. Key publications include Pearson-Dennett et al., 'Use of illicit amphetamines is associated with long-lasting changes in hand circuitry and control' (Clinical Neurophysiology, 2019); Todd et al., 'Prevalence of self-reported movement dysfunction among young adults with a history of ecstasy and methamphetamine use' (Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 2019); Todd et al., 'Upper limb function is normal in patients with restless legs syndrome (Willis-Ekbom Disease)' (Clinical Neurophysiology, 2015); and Todd et al., 'Hand function is impaired in healthy older adults at risk of Parkinson's disease' (Journal of Neural Transmission, 2014). He has received the Enterprising Engagement and Partnering Award (2024), Smarty Grant (2021, AUD 296000), Australian Postgraduate Award (2014, AUD 103396), School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences Divisional Scholarship (2014, AUD 15000), and Norman Weir Parkinson's SA Scholarship (2013, AUD 3000). Faulkner was Vice-Chair of the Community Living Project Board (2018-2024) and chairs the Teaching Innovation Group. He is eligible to co-supervise Masters and PhD students.