Dr Luke Kelly

Honorary Associate Professor

School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences
Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences

Overview

I am an Honorary Associate Professor within the School of Human Movement & Nutrition Sciences. My primary area of research is focused on enhancing our understanding of the complex function of the human foot. Despite the importance of our feet in our daily lives, we know little about this complex anatomical structure. I am driven to understand how the foot has evolved, to perform such a diverse array of locomotor tasks with relative effectiveness and efficiency. Specifically, I study how the brain and spinal cord control foot function, and the role of elastic connective tissues in providing structural support and energy conservation. I am fascinated by the intricate interaction of the many small bones within the foot, and how variations in structure may influence the physcial performance of the foot. Beyond fundamental science, my research has broad application across a range of areas. My research program has both direct industry connections (e.g. Australian Sports Commission and Asics Oceania) and potential applications in different areas of health (e.g. chronic musculoskeletal conditions - osteoarthritis), rehabilitation, and robotic/prosthetic design.

Research Interests

  • Biomechanics of the Foot and Lower Limb
    Exploring the complex function of the human foot in the context of human performance and musculoskeletal health
  • Cricket Biomechanics
    - Biomechanics consultant to Cricket Australia - Member of The International Cricket Council Panel of Human Movement Experts

Qualifications

  • Doctor of Philosophy, The University of Queensland
  • Bachelor of Podiatry, Queensland University of Technology

Publications

View all Publications

Grants

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Supervision

  • (2023) Doctor Philosophy

  • Doctor Philosophy

  • Doctor Philosophy

View all Supervision

Available Projects

View all Available Projects

Publications

Featured Publications

Book Chapter

  • Paterson, Kade L., Kelly, Luke A. and Smith, Michelle D. (2023). Osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle. Foot and ankle biomechanics. (pp. 547-563) edited by William R. Ledoux and Scott Telfer. London, United Kingdom: Academic Press. doi: 10.1016/b978-0-12-815449-6.00026-3

Journal Article

Conference Publication

Other Outputs

PhD and MPhil Supervision

Note for students: Dr Luke Kelly is not currently available to take on new students.

Current Supervision

  • Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor

  • Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor

  • Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor

  • Master Philosophy — Associate Advisor

    Other advisors:

  • Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor

    Other advisors:

  • Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor

    Other advisors:

Completed Supervision

Possible Research Projects

Note for students: The possible research projects listed on this page may not be comprehensive or up to date. Always feel free to contact the staff for more information, and also with your own research ideas.

Dr Luke Kelly is not currently available to take on new students.