Alison Bulow, PhD, CAT(C)

Research summary

Dr. Bulow’s research focuses on using the principles of knowledge translation to bridge the gap between educational research evidence and instructional practice to optimize the teaching and learning of human anatomy. This research is driven by the central question: How can we more effectively translate evidence-informed teaching innovations in anatomical sciences into widespread, sustainable practice across diverse learning environments? Dr. Bulow’s previous interdisciplinary research has centered on innovations in gross anatomy education, surgical and rehabilitation techniques and clinical balance evaluation.

Keywords

• Anatomical education
• Balance evaluation
• Educational research
• Evidence-based intervention
• Formative assessment
• Implementation science
• Knowledge translation
• Musculoskeletal rehabilitation

Dr. Alison Bulow is an assistant professor at the Max Rady College of Medicine in the Human Anatomy and Cell Science department. She completed her PhD within the department in 2019, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship focused on Knowledge Translation in the department of Community Health Sciences. Her academic foundation includes a MSc in Applied Health Sciences (Kinesiology) from Brock University and a BSc Honours in Human Kinetics from Guelph University.

While she obtained her undergraduate degree, she concurrently completed the Sports Injury Management program at Sheridan College. She has been a Certified Athletic Therapist with the Canadian Athletic Therapist Association (CATA) since 2005 and a Registered Massage Therapist since 2011. As a practicing therapist she has worked with varsity athletes from a variety of sports, provincial youth football teams, national development team rowers and community members in both clinical and field settings.

She has taught extensively across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs for a variety of health professions with a focus on gross anatomy, neuroanatomy, and applied clinical skills. Her teaching is grounded in evidence-informed strategies that prioritize student engagement, inclusion, and the development of clinical competence.

Education

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Knowledge Translation, University of Manitoba (2022)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba (2019)

Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Health Sciences (Kinesiology), Brock University (2009)

Athletic Therapy Certification, Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (2005)

Bachelor of Science (BSc) with Honours in Human Kinetics, Guelph University (2005)

Awards

Canadian Athletic Therapist Association Research Grant Award (2016)