Anastasia Zarkou
PT, MS, Ph.D.
Research Scientist, Spinal Cord Injury Research Program
- Marcus Center for Advanced Rehabilitation Explore Dr. Zarkous’s Research
About Dr. Zarkou
“Every discovery matters when it restores independence.”
Dr. Anastasia Zarkou is a Research Scientist II in Shepherd Center’s Spinal Cord Injury Research Program. She brings expertise in biomechanics, neurorehabilitation, and noninvasive neuromodulation to studies aimed at improving walking function, postural control, and sensory recovery for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Dr. Zarkou secures funding for independent research projects, mentors emerging scientists, and collaborates across disciplines to advance rehabilitation science. She currently serves as Co-Investigator on a federally funded study examining the effects of transcutaneous spinal stimulation on walking function in people with SCI.
Research specialties
- Noninvasive brain stimulation
- Motor and sensory function
- Walking function
- Postural control
- Transcutaneous spinal stimulation
Education & training
- Ph.D., Biomechanics (Applied Physiology) – University of Delaware, USA, 2017
- M.S., Rehabilitation – Democritus University, Greece, 2011
- B.S., Physical Therapy – Higher Technological Educational Institute, Greece, 2009
- B.S., Physical Education and Sports Science – Aristotle University, Greece, 2003
Why her work matters
“The integrated rehabilitation model at Shepherd Center aligns with my dual role as clinician and researcher. Observing how injuries affect quality of life shapes our research, while new discoveries enhance care. This cycle — where clinical insight drives investigation and breakthroughs inform practice — ensures every innovation has meaningful, real-world impact.”
Beyond Shepherd
Dr. Zarkou serves as the Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy liaison for the International Neurological Physical Therapy Association Research Working Group within the World Physiotherapy Association. She contributes to the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy of the American Physical Therapy Association as a member of its Research in Review Editorial Team and serves on editorial boards for topics in spinal cord injury rehabilitation, neurorehabilitation, and frontiers in human neuroscience.
Outside of work, Dr. Zarkou enjoys exploring creative hobbies, staying active, and spending time with family and friends.
