Current Research Trainees

Rachel Reparon

Rachel is a combined MScOT/PhD student in the Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program and Occupational Science field working with Dr. Gail Teachman and Dr. Debbie Rudman.

Research Interests / Specializations: Her research focuses on young people labeled intellectually disabled (ID) and how socio-political forces influence the occupational possibilities of young people labeled as ID.

Alicia Dean

Alisha is a PhD student in the School of Occupational Therapy, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.

Research Interests / Specializations: Her current research focused on exploring the experience of racism among racialized health professionals. Alisha is interested in research that invites marginalized voices to the table and opens the door for critically informed dialogue about the diverse subject position of health professionals. She believes there is value in critically examining the prevailing social forces and systemic barriers that influence the identities and occupational possibilities of people; while exposing the realities of health inequities, social inequities, and occupational injustice.

Riley Workentin

Riley is a MSc student in the Occupational Science field of the Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program working with Dr. Debbie Rudman

Research Interests / Specializations: Her research focuses on how volunteer spaces may function as third places in the lives of older adults. She is interested in understanding how these spaces may support or detract from social inclusion, belonging, and meaningful participation in later life.

Bishal Regmi

Bishal Regmi is a PhD student in the Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program and Occupational Science field working under the supervison of Dr. Debbie Laliberte Rudman

Research Interests / Specializations: His research interests lie at the intersection of health, occupational science, and the social sciences, with a focus on the human dimensions of global change, environmental sustainability, aging, and well-being. Drawing on critical and interdisciplinary perspectives, his work explores how global transformations shape people’s everyday lives, meaningful occupations, relationships with place, and experiences of well-being across diverse cultural and geographic settings. His doctoral research examines older adults’ experiences of aging in place amid climate-related environmental change, with particular interest in occupational possibilities and occupational justice. His research considers how social, cultural, environmental, and embodied dimensions shape the ways individuals and communities navigate changing environments and circumstances.