Gina Novario, OTD, OTR/L is the current Advanced Rehabilitation Research and Training Fellow in the Rehabilitation Science and Technology Department at the University of Pittsburgh. She graduated from Slippery Rock University in 2021 with her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. She has worked previously with RST investigators during her Doctoral Capstone experience and briefly as a research assistant prior to working in clinical practice at an inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Her research interests include smart home technology use as assistive technology to promote independence for persons with disabilities. Beyond research, Gina enjoys exploring the Pittsburgh live music scene, hiking in State Parks, and hanging out with her Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Aldo.
Current Project(s):
Fellow Researcher, Funding and Policy Study
Fun Tech Fact Questions & Answers:
Q: Mainstream tech device you can’t live without? Why?
A: My Apple Watch! I love tracking my health goals — if you see me checking my watch, I'm probably checking to see where I'm at with my step count.
Q: What was your first cell phone?
A: A Motorola flip phone, but my favorite phone of all time was my hot pink Razor flip phone. The satisfaction of flipping a cell phone shut after a call needs to come back.
Q: What mainstream tech device is at the top of your wish list, or, what new tech can you not get enough of?
A: A smart lawn mower! These hilly Pittsburgh yards are no joke!
Q: If you were a mainstream tech device, what would you be, and why?
A: A Phillips Hue Light Bulb! I love how changing the light color can make anywhere feel calm and relaxing, and I hope to always give off that same energy anywhere I go.