Michael Kalu, PhD
Navigating New Directions in Aging Research: Insights from Peer Support, Lived Experience, and Cross-Sector Collaboration
Dr. Michael Kalu is an assistant professor of Rehabilitation Therapy in the School of Kinesiology and Health Science at York University. He is the founder and Scientific Director of the Emerging Researchers and Professionals in Aging—African Network (ERPAAN), established in 2017 to build capacity, foster peer support, and catalyze continental collaborations in aging. Today, ERPAAN surpasses 120 members across every continent, driving impactful intercountry partnerships and advancing aging science on a global scale.
Dr. Kalu’s research program unfolds across three interconnected themes: (a) Health Equity and Aging, (b) Mobility and Aging, and (c) Transdisciplinary Gerontological Approaches. Across these themes, he champions Afrocentric, co-creative, advisory-led, community-centered, and technology-enabled methodologies to tackle the most pressing challenges faced by diverse aging populations. His work not only advances scholarly knowledge but also deeply engages black communities to ensure research translates into equitable, real-world health solutions.
Dr. Kalu has authored more than 90 peer-reviewed publications and delivered over 70 presentations at national and international conferences.