Ania Zufic is a Research Assistant in the Biomechanics and Motion Analysis Department at UPMC SSC Sports Medicine. She recently completed a MSc in Sport and Clinical Biomechanics at Atlantic Technological University Galway and previously earned a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science from Liverpool John Moores.
She conducts comprehensive biomechanical assessments following ACL reconstruction, using 3D motion capture and force analysis to evaluate movement strategies and support return-to-play decision making.
Driven by her interest in muscle-tendon mechanics predisposing to injury, Ania began her PhD at Liverpool John Moores University, where her research aims to challenge traditional concepts underpinning Achilles tendinopathy. This involves examining regional muscle-tendon adaptations, loading responses and neuromuscular activation through the use of advanced ultrasound imaging and speckle-tracking techniques. She is dedicated to deepening understanding of Achilles tendinopathy and informing evidence-based exercise interventions.
Alongside doctoral research, Ania is also mentoring interns through research project development and investigating ACL injury mechanisms, with a particular focus on sex-specific and adolescent biomechanical risk factors. Her work seeks to improve understanding of whether women may benefit from tailored return-to-play criteria following ACL injury and reconstruction.
