Michael Furtado is a graduate of the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Science in pre-physical therapy and Master of Science in physical therapy in 2006. He later earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Boston University while he was a practicing physical therapist and has since graduated with a Doctorate of Education in Health Professions from AT Still University.

In his early career, Michael worked as a staff physical therapist for TIRR Memorial Hermann Outpatient Rehabilitation in Houston, Texas, serving in leadership positions such as the Center Coordinator of Clinical Education and Senior Physical Therapist, creating vestibular and balance programs in sports concussion and military veterans. Michael specializes in vestibular rehabilitation and in managing the recovery of amputees but is recognized for his expertise through the American Physical Therapy Association as a Board Certified Neurological Clinical Specialist, with experience treating all types of neurological injuries.

Michael holds an Associate Professor position at another institution, where he serves as Admissions Chair and primary faculty for neuroscience and neurological clinical management courses. He is also the Program Director for a Hybrid track DPT program. He owns an outpatient private practice in Houston, called AMPT Rehab, where he performs clinical practice and research in patients with vestibular dysfunction and neurological deficits.

Michael loves motor control and motor learning! He teaches entry level students and clinicians in the area of concussion and his portfolio of professional accolades includes various grant funded research projects, teaching and clinical awards, and authorship in peer reviewed journals or book chapters with disseminated numerous poster presentations and public speaking engagements at the local, state, and national level.

He joined Rice University in 2022 as a lecturer.