Ernest Byron Marsolais was born in Adams County, Iowa. Marsolais graduated from the University of Iowa, where he went on to obtain his medical degree in 1963. He also holds a Master's degree and Ph. D in Mechanics and Hydraulics, which he completed at the University of Iowa in 1969.

Since 1970, Marsolais has held multiple professorships at Case Western Reserve University and School of Medicine. He is currently Adjunct Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Professor of Orthopaedics. He is the Medical director of Cleveland VA FES Center of Excellence as well as the Director of the Division of Rehabilitation in the Department of Orthopaedics at CWRU School of Medicine.

A prolific author, Marsolais is also an editorial reviewer for several professional journals. He is also President of the Orthopedic Rehabilitation Association for 2000-2001.

Marsolais is married and has one child.