W. David Arnold, MD

Professor and NextGen Executive Director

Dr. W. David Arnold, MD, is the Executive Director of NextGen Precision Health and a Professor in the Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Neurology, and Medical Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of Missouri. Trained at the University of the Cumberlands, University of Louisville and Ohio State University, Dr. Arnold developed expertise spanning clinical neuromuscular medicine, electrophysiology and translational physiology, which now informs his integrative research approach to neuromuscular disease and aging. His clinical work focuses on genetic, sporadic, and traumatic neuromuscular disorders, with particular interests in electrophysiological assessment of the neuromuscular system, myotonic dystrophies, and nondystrophic myotonias. Dr. Arnold’s research program is centered on translational neuromuscular physiology in health, disease and aging, with emphasis on understanding mechanisms of nervous system and muscle decline across the lifespan. By integrating clinical and preclinical studies, his work seeks to identify mechanisms that influence neuromuscular resilience, functional decline and recovery, while advancing patient-centered strategies that improve healthspan and preserve function. As a physician-scientist, institutional leader and mentor, Dr. Arnold is committed to building collaborative translational research programs that accelerate discovery and precision health innovation in neuroscience and neuromuscular medicine.