Research Assistant Professor
Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Ageing; Community Based Research; Health Disparities; Translational Research
I am a PhD exercise physiologist with expertise in motor development, geroscience, community-based clinical trials, and translational research, with the overarching aim of promoting successful aging. My research program is focused on development and implementation of effective and engaging exercise-based strategies to enhance physical and cognitive resilience in older adults.
Through an ongoing partnership with local YMCAs dedicated to supporting older adults, I am assessing the impacts of SMARTfit Cognitive-Motor training (Camarillo, CA) on cognitive and physical function, and dual-task performance among older adults with mild cognitive impairment. I am not only interesting in examining physical and cognitive functional outcomes, but also to evaluate novel methods by which to deliver these therapies in community settings with unique strengths and challenges. Acquiring a complete understanding of our older adult community members' training experiences, the appeal of training activities, and barriers and facilitators to participation, is a critical objective of my work.
Over the past ten years I have worked extensively in medical education, striving to improve the research training primary care providers receive at every level of their medical education and professional careers. I work closely with medical students, residents, and faculty members in primary care to inspire the physician-scientist to embrace evidence-based medicine, develop their critical thinking skills, and apply rigor to their practice. I find great satisfaction working with medical trainees seeking rich opportunities to strengthen their research skills, analytical perspectives, and critical thinking.