Welcome Chiquitha Aminsalehi, PhD, T32 Aging Research Fellow!

We are delighted to welcome Chiquitha Aminsalehi, PhD to the Division of Geriatrics as she begins her appointment as a T32 Aging Research Fellow today! Dr. Aminsalehi brings an exceptional academic and research background, having recently completed her Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Humanities at UC Merced. Her groundbreaking scholarship explores the role of vocal performance in intergenerational storytelling and cultural memory, with a focus on older Black gospel singers in small California communities. Drawing on ethnomusicology, sound studies, and oral history, her work examines how elders use their voices to convey resilience, identity, and lived experiences across generations, while navigating adversity and expressing spiritual and emotional strength through song. By exploring the intersections of aging, memory, and creative expression, Dr. Aminsalehi’s research beautifully highlights the sustaining power of art and storytelling in later life. Her multidisciplinary approach and commitment to amplifying the voices of aging populations align seamlessly with the goals of the T32 fellowship, which aims to cultivate innovative aging research through rigorous training and mentorship.

The T32 Aging Research Fellowship emphasizes academic productivity and equips trainees with the tools to thrive in aging research careers. Dr. Aminsalehi’s impressive record of publications and conference presentations demonstrates her ability to contribute meaningfully to the field. She will benefit from UCSF’s Advanced Training in Clinical Research program and mentorship from our esteemed faculty, including Dr. Theresa Allison. Dr. Allison, a Professor of Medicine in the Division of Geriatrics, brings expertise at the intersection of music, well-being, dementia, and relationships. Her research focuses on the impact of music on diverse older adults, and her mentorship will provide invaluable guidance as Chiquitha further explores themes of resilience and creative expression in aging.

Dr. Aminsalehi will be based at the VA Office, Building 1, in the “Sunshine Room,” and will report to Dr. Alex Smith, Co-Director of the UCSF Aging Research Fellowship Program. We encourage you to reach out to her at [email protected] to send a warm welcome and connect with her. We are thrilled to have her join us and look forward to the impactful work she will accomplish as a member of the Division of Geriatrics. Welcome, Dr. Aminsalehi, to the Division of Geriatrics!