Lawson A. Copley, M.D.

About Me

Lawson A. Copley, M.D., is a pediatric orthopedic surgeon and a principal investigator of Pediatric Musculoskeletal Infection at Scottish Rite for Children. He also serves as a professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Pediatrics at UT Southwestern Medical Center and is a medical director for the Musculoskeletal Infection Program at Children’s Health.

Dr. Copley treats a range of complex conditions including musculoskeletal infections, fractures, trauma and other pediatric orthopedic disorders. He is recognized for his surgical expertise in pediatric musculoskeletal infections and his leadership in advancing evidence-based clinical practices that improve outcomes for children.

Dr. Copley has contributed extensively to peer-reviewed research, lectures and scientific presentations focused on pediatric orthopedic surgery, musculoskeletal infections and quality improvement initiatives. As a nationally recognized educator and professor, he has authored numerous publications and delivered invited presentations around the world while mentoring medical students, residents and fellows throughout his career.

His professional affiliations include the American Medical Association, the Texas Orthopaedic Association, the Texas Society of Sports Medicine, the Dallas County Medical Society, the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, the Musculoskeletal Infection Society, the European Society of Pediatric Infectious Disease, the Orthopaedic Research Society and the Aerospace Medical Association. 

Dr. Copley earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. He completed both a general surgery internship and an orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Pennsylvania, followed by the Dorothy and Bryant Edwards Fellowship in Pediatric Orthopaedics and Scoliosis at Scottish Rite for Children.

Dr. Copley served for 28 years in the United States Air Force, retiring at the rank of Colonel in 2025. His military leadership roles included Chief of Surgical Services for the 96th Medical Group and Commander of the 301st Medical Squadron.

He is board-certified in orthopedic surgery by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and in Clinical Informatics by the American Board of Preventive Medicine. With more than 30 years of experience in medicine, Dr. Copley’s leadership extends across clinical care, research and surgical education. His goal is to advance treatments and research that improve outcomes for children while supporting Scottish Rite’s commitment to giving children back their childhood.

Academic Appointment

Professor, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Department of Pediatrics