Whether it’s solving the world’s biggest problems or investigating the potential of novel discoveries, researchers at ¼¤Çé¿ì²¥ are on the edge scientific breakthroughs that aim to make an impact. Through the, student and faculty researchers condense their complex studies into bite-sized summaries so you can know how and why Knights plan to improve our world.
Name: Ladda Thiamwong
Position: Florida Blue Endowed Professor for Healthy Communities
Why are you interested in this research?
I believe strongly in the human ability to change and grow. I love to see this and be able to measure and share information on how best to enhance our longevity and quality of life. Ultimately, I want to prevent falls and enhance healthy aging.
Who inspires you to conduct your research?
I have had numerous friends and family members who are older adults and they and their families were negatively impacted by falls.
How does ¼¤Çé¿ì²¥ empower you to do your research?
¼¤Çé¿ì²¥ has provided and encouraged me with such a wonderful atmosphere of collaboration and support. I am grateful to be able to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary colleagues, a huge support team of staff and wonderful students. It’s such a blessing to be in the Central Florida area with all the resources and community partnerships that are available and focused on improving life for older adults.
Are you a faculty member or student conducting research at ¼¤Çé¿ì²¥? We want to hear from you!
What major grants and honors have you earned to support your research?
My work has earned recognition from several prestigious organizations. I am a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (2023) and a distinguished fellow in the Nursing Academy of the National Academies of Practice (2024).
I, in collaboration with other researchers at ¼¤Çé¿ì²¥, have received National Institutes of Health grants to optimize a technology-based body and mind intervention to prevent falls and reduce health disparities in low-income populations. This interdisciplinary project includes Jeff Stout, founding director for the School of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences; Joon-Hyuk Park, assistant professor of mechanical engineering; Rui Xie, associate professor of statistics and data science; Nichole Lighthall, associate professor of psychology; and Vicki Loerzel, the Beat M. and Jill L. Kahli Endowed Professor in Oncology. Our team has also won a Healthy Longevity Global Competition Award from the U.S. National Academy of Medicine.
Why is conducting research important to you?
Working at an R1 research university in the U.S. is a great honor. As an immigrant, a first-generation college graduate who grew up in a rural area and relocated from Thailand, I have experienced extraordinary personal and professional challenges in achieving and maintaining academic and scientific success. I commit to teaching, sharing my experience and securing external funding to support students and sustain my research and mentorship.