Dr. Chiung-ju (CJ) Liu
Dr. Liu is the principal investigator of the Healthy Aging and Functional Ability Research Lab. As an occupational therapist and gerontologist, her research passion is to help older adults ageing in place. Dr. Liu’s work has contributed to two practice guidelines published by the American Occupational Therapy Association: Occupational Therapy Practice Guidelines for Older Adults with Low Vision and Occupational Therapy Practice Guideline for Productive Aging for Community-dwelling Older Adults. She was invited by the World Health Organization to develop the Guidelines on Integrated Care for Older People.
View Dr. Liu’s faculty profile
Allie Armstrong
Allie graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science degree from the College of Public Health and Health Professions at the University of Florida in May 2024. She is currently pursuing her Occupational Therapy Doctorate degree. Allie joined the lab in spring 2022 through the Active Learning Program. She then worked as an undergraduate student volunteer for the lab for a year before being promoted to Research Coordinator in fall 2023. Allie is excited to continue her participation in the lab by working on new projects and furthering her understanding of research.
Eduardo Montaner
Eduardo is a graduate student in the Master’s program in Medical Microbiology and Biochemistry at the University of Florida. He recently earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology, with a minor in Innovation, from the University of Florida in May 2024. With aspirations to become a cardiologist, Eduardo aims to enhance his research skills in health sciences and deepen his overall understanding of medicine as he prepares for medical school. He is working with Dr. Liu to explore ways to optimize group therapy for Medicare beneficiaries in skilled nursing facilities.
Jemma Raner
Jemma is a second-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Florida. She began her career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant after earning her Associate’s degree from AdventHealth University. She brings clinical experience from working in the skilled nursing facility setting. Jemma is passionate about helping older adults maintain independence and is excited to deepen her research experience to support her future practice.
Brandon Grassie
Brandon is a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in Health Sciences on the pre-medical track at the University of Florida, with a minor in Spanish. He is currently developing his Honors thesis focused on cognitive and physical functioning, as well as activities of daily living in home health patients. Passionate about becoming a neurologist, Brandon is excited to contribute to the lab’s research and deepen his understanding of brain health and aging.
Summer Fulgham
Summer is a second-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Florida. She has nearly four years of experience as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Her clinical background includes acute care and skilled nursing settings, where she has developed a strong foundation in supporting patient recovery and independence. As a lifelong Gator fan, she is thrilled to be part of UF’s OT program and looks forward to expanding her research skills and clinical expertise through her work in the lab.