CIARAN DUBECK

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

1. Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing?

I am studying an aspect of walking that deals with trip-related falls with Dr. Carter.  My USURF project looks at how a hip flexion intervention that we designed will affect the gait of older adults.  Other projects we are working on involve comparing two methods of motion analysis and analyzing differences in gait patterns between different age groups. 

2. What do you find fascinating in the research you’re doing?

What’s not to be fascinated by?  The depth that gait research may extend to in the future is surely beyond my understanding, and I learn something new every day.  From familiarizing myself with motion analysis technologies to creating my first intervention program, I am always excited to come to the lab. 

3. What skills are you learning through the USURF experience?

The highlights of this learning experience thus far include, but are not limited to, the following:

·   Writing an IRB (Institutional Review Board) proposal for my USURF-funded study,

·   Learning about medical ethics through the CITI (Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative) Program “Social and Behavioral Research Training”,

·   Familiarizing myself with computer software and programs involved in motion analysis and collecting data with them,

·   Creating subject models with collected data, and

·   Gaining experience with data management.

 4. What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research?

Gaining the new skills mentioned above was a challenge at first of course, but now I am becoming more comfortable with the different research processes.  The greatest setback I have encountered has been seeking support for the USURF project from the IRB.  I am learning that this process takes time, though, and I feel more than prepared to begin this project once we have this final approval. 

 5. How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field?

I am so excited to continue my education in physical therapy!  Before this experience I had not considered the huge influence that research has on the field and the many benefits it can provide for patients and healthcare workers alike.  Now I am inspired to continue my involvement in gait-related research beyond what the rest of this summer has in store. 

 6. Tell us something interesting about yourself.

The language I studied in high school was Italian, and I was lucky enough to visit Italy for a week the summer before senior year!  Going back is one of the most exciting things I am looking forward to in the future, aside from being a physical therapist of course 😊.