Joseph D Gardinier, PhD

Biographical Statement

Joseph D. Gardinier, PhD, is a biomedical engineer and assistant scientist at Henry Ford Health whose research focuses on the biology and biomechanics of bone. He earned his doctorate from the University of Delaware and has developed a multidisciplinary research program that integrates engineering and cell biology to better understand skeletal health and disease. 

Dr. Gardinier's research seeks to understand how the cellular response to weight-bearing loads during daily activities or exercise can be leveraged to prevent osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk in the aging population. He is particularly interested in the underlying mechanisms by which aging alters osteocytes' sensitivity to mechanical forces and how targeted therapies can restore their response to loading and improve bone quality. His work utilizes advanced cellular and molecular techniques to identify novel components of the mechanotransduction pathway alongside an array of imaging and mechanical loading modalities to assess bone quality. Through collaborations with orthopedic surgeons, engineers, and basic scientists, Dr. Gardinier translates fundamental discoveries in bone biology into approaches that may improve musculoskeletal health.

Dr. Gardinier continues to collaborate with multidisciplinary investigators across Henry Ford Health and academic partners to advance bone and joint research. His long-term goal is to develop innovative therapies that improve bone quality, enhance skeletal repair and promote healthy aging through a better understanding of bone mechanobiology.

Research Interests

• Bone biomechanics 
• Osteocyte biology 
• Mechanotransduction 
• Skeletal aging 
• Exercise physiology 
• Bone remodeling

Email: JGardin2@hfhs.org