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About

Alicia M. Koontz is a leading researcher in rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology, with a particular focus on improving the safety and efficiency of wheelchair transfers for both care recipients and caregivers. Her body of work centers on the development, evaluation, and clinical implementation of robotic-assisted transfer devices — an area where she has made substantial and sustained contributions over more than two decades. Koontz's most influential work includes a comprehensive literature review of person transfer assist systems (2019, 46 citations), which established a foundational framework for understanding emerging robotic technologies in caregiving contexts. Building on this, she has rigorously evaluated multiple robotic transfer devices — including the Strong Arm, AgileLife Patient Transfer System, and Powered Personal Transfer System — assessing usability, caregiver muscle activation, cognitive task load, and real-world home performance. Her research consistently demonstrates that robotic solutions can meaningfully reduce caregiver burden and injury risk compared to conventional mechanical lifts. With cumulative citations exceeding 120 across her key publications, Koontz's work directly addresses a critical gap in healthcare: protecting caregivers while enhancing dignity and mobility outcomes for wheelchair users. Her research bridges engineering innovation with clinical application, making her an essential voice in the field of assistive and rehabilitation technology.