January Alumni of the Month: Krista Best

Name: Krista Best

Program: Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Sciences (PhD)

Dissertation: Manual wheelchair users: Understanding participation and skill

Graduated: Spring 2015

How would you describe your research project in the UBC Rehabilitation Sciences program?

My program of research focusses on mobility, assistive technology, adapted physical activity, and social participation with applications in clinical and community settings. I work with all populations from children to older adults in efforts to create a continuum of rehabilitation interventions and programs. A large part of my research involves clinical and community partnerships, such that end-users are engaged through all stages of research. I strive to follow the guiding principles of integrated knowledge translation to enhance the impact of my work.

Where and what is your current position?

I am an Assistant Professor at Université Laval in the Department of Rehabilitation and a Quebec Health Research Funds Junior 1 Scholar at the Centre for research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris). I am also an Affiliate Assistant Professor in Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy at UBC.

How do you like to spend your free time?

In my free time I enjoy being active. In warmer months I like to run with my two dogs, and when it gets colder, I enjoying both cross country and alpine skiing. Travel is also at the top of my list, especially southern European countries. But given the ability to stay connected now, you sometimes don’t even have to wait to have free time to travel!