Angelo Graffos, BKin 2016, MSc 2019, started his research journey in his 4th year at UBC when he volunteered as a research assistant (RA) in Dr. Michael Hunt’s Motion Analysis and Biofeedback Lab. His interest in knee osteoarthritis and biomechanics research stemmed from an ACL injury he suffered in elementary school. As a result, his injury inspired him to learn more about the link between his ACL injury and osteoarthritis, and the impact research has on rehabilitation practices.
During his stint as an RA, he found his passion for research, and he decided to pursue a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences under the supervision of Dr. Hunt. In collaboration with researchers from the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility, and Arthritis Research Canada, Angelo’s thesis project examined the biomechanics of the cross-body lunge in individuals with and without femoroacetabular impingement.
In order to gain more research exposure and build relationships within the research community, Angelo began volunteering as an RA at the CHANGEpain Clinic in 2016 and the UBC Fitness, Aging, & Stress Lab in 2017. As a graduate student, he was a member of the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility Trainee Committee, where he organized academic and social events with other trainees, researchers and faculty members.
Because of his contributions to the research and science community over the years, he has received several awards, including the Arthritis Society Vancouver Branch Scholarship in 2017, and the Arthritis Society Vancouver Community Group James Kwan Scholarship in 2017 and 2018.
One of his proudest moments at UBC was when he received the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI) Rising Star Award on the day of his MSc graduation ceremony. This award recognizes trainees who exhibit research excellence and are role models in the VCHRI environment, and it funds travel for international scientific conference presentations.
Angelo is passionate about helping and inspiring others, both in the academic world and in the community. He is a leader and an active volunteer in the School of Kinesiology – a Young Alumni Advisory Group member, and a mentor in the Mentorship Program. Combining his love of sports and working with children and youth, Angelo has been involved as a volunteer, support worker, and skills head coach for the Canucks Autism Network since 2014. His consistent and dedicated work has been recognized by the organization with a volunteer training scholarship in 2017.
Angelo’s long-term goal is to continue to help others. He is eager to explore opportunities in pediatrics, sports medicine, and family medicine, and to pursue his interests in the medical field either as a physician or a physician-scientist.
