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Dr Paul Watson

Dr Paul Watson

Research Associate

Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) The University of Sydney, Bachelor of Applied Science (Ex.Phys.) The University of Sydney

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Medicine & Health
School of Population Health

Paul completed his Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Sydney in 2013. With over a decade of professional experience, he has specialised as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist in rehabilitation and physical activity of spinal cord injury and stroke. His therapeutic background encompasses roles as both a therapist and operations manager within the neurological injury/illness space and within the Australian healthcare system. He has trained in various therapeutic programs both domestically and internationally.

In 2020, Paul commenced his PhD studies, having been awarded the Spinal Cord Injuries Australia Postgraduate Research Scholarship. He earned his PhD in 2024, receiving aThesis Excellence Award from the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney. His doctoral research explored current behavioural patterns of physical activity among individuals with spinal cord injuries, identifying both barriers and facilitators to engagement. He developed and proposed a behavioural model grounded in theory and behaviour change frameworks aimed at improving physical activity levels in this population. Paul has been involved with numerous research projects in The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitative Research and Neuroscience Research Australia.

His active involvement in various executive committees further demonstrates Paul's commitment to spinal cord injury physical activity and rehabilitation. Additionally, he has presented his research extensively, delivering numerous oral presentations and facilitating workshops at both local and international conferences.Ìý

Paul's expertise extends beyond his clinical and research roles. His experience in higher education, having taught for over seven years at the tertiary level, and his Associate Fellowship in with the Higher Education Association demonstrates his commitment to education and professional development.

Phone
+61-2-9348 2526
Location
Samuels Building, F25, Samuel Terry Avenue Kensington NSW 2052
  • Journal articles | 2024
    Watson PK; Stendell L; Quel de Oliveira C; Middleton JW; Arora M; Davis GM, 2024, 'Leisure-time physical activity motives and perceived gains for individuals with spinal cord injury', Spinal Cord, 62, pp. 546 - 552,
    Journal articles | 2023
    Watson PK; Eitivipart AC; Davis GM; Arora M; Middleton JW; De Oliveira CQ, 2023, 'Effects of behaviour change interventions on physical activity in people with spinal cord injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis', Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 67,
    Journal articles | 2022
    Watson PK; Arora M; Middleton JW; Quel de Oliveira C; Heard R; Nunn A; Geraghty T; Marshall R; Davis GM, 2022, 'Leisure-Time Physical Activity in People With Spinal Cord Injury—Predictors of Exercise Guideline Adherence', International Journal of Public Health, 67,

2024 The University of Sydney Faculty of Medicine and Health Thesis Excellence Award

2020 Spinal Cord Injuries Australia Postgraduate Research Scholarship

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Paul possesses advanced expertise in the behavioural aspects of physical activity and rehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injuries. His research has elucidated contemporary behaviors, pinpointed obstacles and enablers to increasing participation, and proposed innovative strategies—grounded in behaviour change theory and frameworks—to enhance physical activity and overall health within this predominantly sedentary population.

As an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Paul has undergone extensive training in rehabilitative and exercise methodologies both domestically and internationally. Additionally, he engages in a modest amount of clinical practice on a regular basis.

2024 - present, Catholic Scholars Guild

2023 - present, Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Association

2023 - present, Australia and New Zealand Spinal Cord Society Executive Committee

2023 - present, International Spinal Cord Society Special Interest Group: Physical Activity

2015 - present, sole-trading Exercise Physiologist

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