Graci Finco, PhD, CPO, MS – Assistant Professor & SciMAC Member
Dr. Graci Finco is an Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at Texas Christian University and Director of the Limb Loss and Difference Lab. A certified prosthetist-orthotist and federally funded researcher, she is dedicated to advancing ethical, evidence-based, and community-informed prosthetic care. Her work bridges clinical practice, research, and advocacy to improve healthcare quality, mobility, and outcomes for people with limb loss and limb difference.
Qualifications Summary:
- Leader in Prosthetic Research & Evidence-Based Care
- Principal Investigator of an NIH-funded study examining ethical considerations surrounding advanced prosthetic technologies.
- Leads research focused on quality of prosthetic care, fall risk, mobility, and patient perspectives.
- Published research on prosthetic rehabilitation, healthcare quality, clinical outcomes, and patient experiences.
- Clinical Expertise & Translational Research
- Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist (CPO) with clinical and research experience at nationally recognized institutions, including Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and Baylor College of Medicine.
- Combines clinical expertise with biomechanics and rehabilitation research to inform prosthetic care and clinical decision-making.
- Advocates for translating scientific findings into meaningful improvements in clinical practice.
- Community Engagement & Amputee Coalition Collaboration
- Served as an external program evaluator for the Amputee Coalition for two years, contributing to the evaluation of national programs and community resources.
- Collaborated with the Coalition on research examining community engagement, resource utilization, and experiences of people with limb loss and limb difference.
- Prioritizes meaningful involvement of people with lived experience in identifying research priorities, developing studies, and interpreting findings.
- Education, Leadership & Professional Service
- PhD in Biomedical Sciences from the University of North Texas Health Science Center and MS in Orthotics and Prosthetics from Baylor College of Medicine.
- Serves on the Board of Directors of the Live in Motion Foundation (formerly the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation), supporting research and professional advancement.
- Recognized as a 2026 O&P Rising Star by the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association.
- Mentors interdisciplinary students and emerging researchers in prosthetics, rehabilitation, and community-centered research.
Dr. Finco brings a unique combination of clinical, scientific, and community engagement expertise to SciMAC. She is committed to strengthening the connection between research and advocacy, ensuring that scientific priorities reflect the needs and experiences of people with limb loss and limb difference.