New AOTF Research Community for Students (ARCS)
Curious about a research career but not sure where to start? ARCS is a place for you!
The AOTF Research Community for Students brings together occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant students from across the country to learn, connect, and grow. No prior research experience is required. If you’re interested in asking questions, exploring evidence, and advancing the profession, you’re welcome here.
How to Get Involved:
- Contact DRobertson@aotf.org to learn more about student leadership opportunities by Sept. 30, 2026.
- Add the next Virtual ARCS Meeting, 7:00 – 8:30 PM ET, Feb. 9, 2027, to your calendar. (date and time subject to change)
Program Eligibility:
- Those interested in learning more about researchers across institutions
- Occupational therapy (OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) students
- Occupational therapy (OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) students
- Individuals planning to return to school who have not yet completed a terminal degree
What ARCS Aims to Provide:
- Opportunities to learn about research processes and research careers in occupational therapy
- Access to webinars, discussions, and virtual events featuring researchers
- Connections with peers, mentors, and researchers across institutions
- Opportunities to share research ideas and learn about evidence-based practice
- Mentorship opportunities with experienced occupational therapy researchers
Thank you, Speakers and Participants!
Virtual ARCS Kick-Off Meeting, 7:00 – 8:30 PM ET, Sept. 15, 2026.
Alison M. Cogan, PhD, OTR/L
Assistant Professor, Mrs. T.H. Chan, Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
Director, Rehabilitation and Functional Recovery Studies in Health Services (ReFReSH) Lab
Anne Dickerson, PhD, OTR/L, SCDCM, FAOTA, FGSA
Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy
East Carolina University
Mario Millsap, OTD, OTR/L
Clinical Specialist OT
Washington University School of Medicine
Tiana Nguyễn PhD, OTD, OTR/L, CNT, SWC
Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science
University of California, San Francisco
Moderators:
Ganesh M. Babulal, PhD, OTD, MSCI, MOT, OTR/L
Professor, Departments of Neurology & Quantitative Health Sciences
Investigator, Abigail Van Buren ADRC
Roberta (Bobbi) Gittens Pineda, PhD, OTR/L, CNT
Associate Professor, Mrs. T.H. Chan, Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
Questions? EMAIL drobertson@AOTF.ORG