Specific research interest -- neurobiology of aging:  the interaction between aging, exercise, brain structure and function, especially as it relates to cognitive decline and/or functional maintenance.  A description of my current projects are listed below. Click on the underlined links to review some of the research results.

Creation of an automated diffiusion tensor imaging atlas for older adults.  This  research project, funded by an Interdisciplinary Initiative Grant from UNC's College of Arts and Sciences, is developing an automated (computerized) analysis for brain mapping in older adults. The long-term goal is to use the newly developed program in future exercise neuroscience research applications as well as to provide a new resource to the neuroscience community.

Instrument validation of a falls risk self-assessment tool.  This is a pilot to determine: 1)  what types of fall-risk evaluations older adults can conduct on their own without the need of a health care professional and, 2) which ones are most predictive of falls risk.  Particpants were between 70 to 84 years of age with varying health statuses and completing a variety of cognitive and physical performance field tests. Funded by UNC's Institute on Aging.   

Potential impact of aerobic exercise participation on cerebral white matter integrity in the cingulum of older adults. This study is investigating the role of long-term aerobic exercise on brain structure and cognitive function in healthy adults between 60 to 76 years of age.  Funded by UNC-Biomedical Research Imaging Center (BRIC) and the University Research Council. Recruitment for this study is completed.

Role of aerobic fitness and aging on cerebral white matter integrity. This was a retrospective study completed at Duke which compared estimated aerobic fitness levels to fractional anisotropy determined via diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) targeting specific regions of interest in the brain of older adults. The research presentation received a junior investigator neuroimaging award from the American Federation of Aging, General Electric, & New York Academy of Sciences.