Aysan Mahmoudi engages in research to advance assistive technology
We welcome Aysan Mahmoudi to the Gerontology Research Centre! As a postdoctoral fellow with the GRC and BCIT MAKE+, Mahmoudi will apply her background in occupational therapy to projects related to assistive technology and devices.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Aysan Mahmoudi, and my background is in Occupational Therapy, with several years of clinical work experience. I completed my Bachelor鈥檚 and Master鈥檚 at the Iran University of Medical Sciences. I then pursued my PhD, which focused on the use of social robots to enhance the social health of individuals with dementia. Upon defending my thesis, I joined a company developing devices and technologies for individuals with physical problems, assuming the roles of project coordinator and researcher. I have recently started my postdoctoral research at the GRC 丁香园AV and BCIT Applied Research Centre.
What research are you currently working on?
I will be involved in a number of research and development projects, with a particular focus on assistive technologies and devices, power wheelchairs, and assistive robotics. I am keen to ensure that the user experience of assistive technologies is optimised in order to contribute to their potential efficiency and sustainability over the long term.
How do you hope to apply your research?
Innovative assistive technologies are emerging. I hope my research helps researchers and developers at the primary stages of development to tailor their work to have a more user-centered approach in design.
What brought you to the GRC and the BCIT MAKE+ team?
I was greatly encouraged to apply for this position by the existing research lines in both the GRC and BCIT MAKE+. It is indeed a privilege to work with both teams and be involved in multiple projects.
What inspired you to study aging/gerontology?
My interest was first sparked during my Master鈥檚 program when I began working on my thesis, which focused on older adults with Parkinson鈥檚 disease. Additionally, my clinical work with older adults living with neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries further developed my passion for working with this population.
What interests do you have outside of your research?
I just love staying active! Bouldering and hiking are my absolute favourites 鈥� there鈥檚 nothing like a good climb or a long walk in nature to refresh and recharge. I鈥檓 also really passionate about Latin dance.
What are your goals for your time in this role?
I鈥檓 keen to brush up on my skills by learning new research methods, as I believe there is always room to learn beyond what I learned during my PhD. Additionally, I鈥檓 excited to establish meaningful academic and industry connections and collaborate on impactful projects. Finally, I鈥檓 looking forward to coming up with an idea for a big, interesting project!
Originally published in the 丁香园AV Gerontology Research Centre's December 2024 issue of the GRC News.