Introducing Aaron Flaster (they/them), a research study coordinator in the UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. Aaron has been with the department since 2018.
What research projects do you work on currently?
I am working on several research studies that focus on Spinal Cord Injury and chronic pain. Two of those studies take place on the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit at Harborview Medical Center: the HYPCT study, with Dr. Amy Starosta, PhD, examines a four-session therapeutic hypnosis intervention for acute and chronic pain in adults with a recent SCI. The SCI Sprint study, with Dr. Deborah Crane, MD, MPH, examines a brief exercise intervention to improve health outcomes in adults with a recent SCI. The other two studies are remote studies: a multi-site study with Kessler Foundation (Lead Site), UW (Dr. Chuck Bombardier, PhD), and Craig Hospital to test an online cognitive training program to improve cognitive outcomes in adults with a recent SCI. Finally, the Digital Hypnosis study, with Dr. Mark Jensen, PhD, examines a web-based therapeutic hypnosis intervention to improve pain outcomes for adults with chronic pain.
What attracted you to the field of research?
I want to contribute to evidence-based practice and ensure that patients' needs are being heard by pushing forward the interventions and questions that patients want to be prioritized. I think including patient voices and community stakeholders is an essential part of the research process.
Why did you decide to work in the UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine?
I was drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the department. I love that we have occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, psychologists, prosthetics/orthotics, and many more specialties within our department providing clinical care, teaching, and research.
What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?
I most enjoy talking to patients! As research coordinators, we get to be another supportive contact for patients. I also enjoy collaborating with colleagues on how we can improve the research process within clinical settings and share knowledge across research teams to implement best practices.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I enjoy relaxing with my housemates, kayaking, swimming, and I am excited to work on my new sewing skills!