Researcher Spotlight: Alexis Bender

What is your professional background?
My doctoral training was in sociology with a concentration in family, health, and the life course. I also completed an interdisciplinary certificate in gerontology from Georgia State University. Before joining Emory, I worked with the Army Public Health Center in Maryland conducting mixed methods research and evaluation of social and behavioral health among active-duty soldiers and their families (e.g., behavioral health access, suicide, violence).

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor? 
I am in the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology. Since joining Emory, I have grown my mentoring team and am fortunate to have the opportunity to work with many mentors. In the division, I primarily work with Molly Perkins. I also am a recent K01 awardee and my additional mentors for this project are Hannah Cooper and Regine Haardörfer in RSPH, and David Moore at University of California, San Diego.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My research broadly focuses on aging with disability and chronic disease with an emphasis on relationships over the life course. My current K01 is examining the relationships among methamphetamine use, HIV, and cognitive function over time and across the life course and to assess if social relationships mediate these relationships. An understanding of how social relationships mediate the impacts of HIV and methamphetamine use on cognitive function across the life span can inform future treatment responses and care interventions designed to reduce substance use and negative impacts on cognitive function among people with co-occurring HIV and substance use disorders.

What do you like most about Emory?
I appreciate the opportunities for collaboration and to be able to work with students from various schools and backgrounds.

What is your favorite movie or TV show? 
I don’t think I really have a favorite, but I look forward to “Top Chef” every season.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Since I am not commuting every day, I have found a little more spare time. I enjoy running and walking or finding time to spend outside. I also really enjoy baking and trying new recipes (hence the need for walking and running).

What is a fun fact about you? 
In the past year, I have started doing virtual long-distance challenges. My goal for this year is to walk or run 2022 KM (1256 miles).