Janet Dufek

Professor, School of Integrated Health Sciences
Expertise: Biomechanics, Ergonomics/Human Factors, Exercise Equipment Evaluation

Biography

Janet Dufek is a biomechanist and founding advisory board member of the REBEL (Rehabilitation, Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Engineering and Life Sciences) Research Group. Her research focuses on lower extremity function with an eye toward injury prevention. More specifically, Dufek has used a landing model to assess kinematic and kinetic responses to various experimental conditions, but, more so, to examine individual responses to these experimental perturbations. Dufek has also used running and walking protocols to examine similar phenomena. 

She regularly collaborates with colleagues in Physical Therapy, Engineering and Nursing to address questions of clinical concern. She has worked with pediatric populations with cerebral palsy and autism, and adult populations with diabetes. 

Dufek currently serves as a professor within the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition Sciences. Dufek has also served as the school's associate dean, and a graduate coordinator for the doctorate programs in kinesiology and interdisciplinary health sciences. She holds associate graduate faculty status in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at ºÚÁÏÍø and is an adjunct professor in ºÚÁÏ꿉۪s Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine and at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Education

  • Ph.D., Biomechanics, Integrated Exercise Science; University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, 1988
  • M.S., Scientific Foundations of Kinesiology; Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois, 1982
  • B.S., Physical Education, University of Wisconsin-Superior, Superior, Wisconsin, 1981

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Janet Dufek In The News

Prevention
They may help you get stronger, bust boredom, and put you into a playful mindset that can motivate you to keep it going.
Everyday Health
Is walking backwards, also known as retro walking, a fitness trend you should be trying — assuming you’re willing to get a few quizzical looks from friends and neighbors?
Runner's World
Walking is one of the simplest and most accessible physical activities, but what happens when the movement is reversed? Backward walking, or retro walking, is a practice that is establishing itself in the world of fitness thanks to its unique benefits. Although it may seem like a modern trend, this technique has ancient origins: it was in fact used in Chinese medicine to improve body balance.
Elle Magazine
Physiotherapist reveals benefits of walking backwards

Articles Featuring Janet Dufek

Josh Hawkins, ºÚÁÏÍø
Campus News | July 3, 2024

News highlights featuring ºÚÁÏÍø students and staff who made (refreshing) waves in the headlines.

The Las Vegas skyline (Josh Hawkins, ºÚÁÏÍø).
Campus News | December 4, 2023

A collection of news stories highlighting ºÚÁÏ꿉۪s dedication to community and research.