Research Committee ChairAaron Eakman, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Position Statement: Serving as Abstract Review Coordinator and Proceedings Editor for the SSO:USA’s (2018 – 2022) Conferences has provided me with insights into the research topics and methods of occupational scientists who participate in the Society’s meetings, as well as the challenges they face in pursuing funded research programs that contribute to the development of the science. Through this position, and in collaboration with Conference Committee Chairs, we have substantially expanded opportunities for SSO:USA member engagement in the research enterprise. My 15-year history of occupational science research, presently focused on developing understanding and application of the occupation of sleep through the Restoring Effective Sleep Tranquility Lab, has helped inform my perspectives on the science of occupation. This work has highlighted the challenges of sustaining research that advances the capacity of the science to support human well-being as well as equipping clinicians to apply occupation in practice. I look forward to working with the committee and SSO: USA board in leveraging the Society’s recent capacity building. SSO email: [email protected]
Past Board Research Chairs2021-2023: Ryan Lavalley, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 2019-2021: Kendra Heatwole Shank, Towson University 2017-2019: Antoine Bailliard, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 2015-2017: Mackenzi Pergolotti, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 2012-2015: Rebecca Aldrich, Saint Louis University 2010-2012: Wendy Stav, Towson University 2008-2010: Doris Pierce, Eastern Kentucky University 2006-2008: Melissa Park, UCLA/NPI Health Services Research Center 2004-2006: Malcolm Cutchin, University of North Carolina 2002-2004: Ruth Segal, New York University |
Professional Affiliation: Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University