Dr Joshua W. Pate is a Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy and the Responsible Academic Officer (Research) at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). A global leader in paediatric pain science, his research focuses on the "Concept of Pain", investigating how a child’s understanding of pain influences their recovery and how educational interventions can reshape this trajectory.

Joshua’s work bridges the gap between clinical research and global health policy. He currently leads the UTS Graduate School of Health’s AI Research Node, directing a multidisciplinary team exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and health communication. Furthermore, he serves as the Health Lead for the UNICEF Insight Report on Behavioural Data Science, building on his previous work as an external reviewer of the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for Chronic Pain in Children.

His research has attracted over $1.6 million in competitive funding (including MRFF and UNICEF grants) and has led to the development of the Concept of Pain Inventory (COPI). This clinical tool has been translated into nine languages and is currently used in over 226 clinics and hospitals worldwide to assess and treat pain.

Joshua is widely recognised for his ability to translate complex science for public audiences. He was named a 2024 NSW Young Tall Poppy and the 2025 Engagement Australia Excellence Award winner for Outstanding Leadership in Engagement. His educational innovations include the ‘Zoe and Zak’s Pain Hacks’ children's book series, the 'One Thing' video platform, and two TED-Ed animations, which have been viewed over 1.9 million times.

Passionate about the future of health education, Joshua actively investigates AI-resilient assessment design and advocates for preventative pain science education in schools, aiming to reduce the burden of chronic pain for the next generation.