CHHS Research Spotlight: Lauren Turbeville

A Q&A with Dr. Lauren Turbeville, assistant professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy:

What is your educational and training background?

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Special Education from the College of Charleston, followed by a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the Medical University of South Carolina and a Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. I am a licensed and board-certified occupational therapist with clinical experience across hospital, school-based and community settings.

In 200 words or less, can you describe your program of research?

My research focuses on improving quality of life and access to care for people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Through community-engaged, interdisciplinary research and partnership with the Parkinson’s Foundation, I have developed community programs and examined care partner resilience and lived experiences. I also mentor master’s and doctoral students in occupational therapy in funded research, analysis and dissemination.

What is your why? Why do you do this work?

My dad’s journey with Parkinson’s disease is at the heart of my work and gives me a perspective that extends beyond my roles as a researcher and occupational therapist. This personal connection motivates me to pursue research that makes a tangible difference and improves access to meaningful resources for individuals with Parkinson’s and their families. My dad is a constant reminder that behind every research question and data point is a person and a family who can be positively impacted by this work.

Describe your style of collaboration, including what you look for in research partners and how it strengthens your own work. 

My collaboration style is interdisciplinary and grounded in shared purpose. I would not be where I am today without my collaborators from the Departments of Communication Sciences and Disorders and Physical Therapy, whose expertise and support have been instrumental in shaping and strengthening my research. I value partners who are willing to learn from one another because our collective work is far stronger and more impactful than anything I could accomplish alone.

What is your fun fact?

Outside of work, I regularly play in USTA tennis leagues and tournaments.