New York University - United States
Author Profile
Early Academic Pursuits
Assoc Prof Dr . Gerald Thomas Voelbel began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1997, receiving the prestigious Jacqueline Lewis Award. Building on this foundation, he pursued a Master of Science in Psychology with a focus on Biopsychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, followed by a Doctorate of Philosophy in the same field, both from Rutgers University. His doctoral dissertation earned him the esteemed Leon Greenberg Memorial Dissertation Award in 2004.
Professional Endeavors
Throughout his career, Assoc Prof Dr . Voelbel has held various academic appointments, starting as a Research Assistant at Rutgers University's Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory and Center of Alcohol Studies. He later transitioned to teaching roles as a Teaching Assistant and Adjunct Faculty member. Dr. Voelbel's expertise and dedication led to appointments as an Instructor and ultimately Assistant Professor at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. He furthered his career at New York University, where he currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development.
Contributions and Research Focus
Assoc Prof Dr . Voelbel's research is centered on the intersection of psychology and neuroscience, with a particular focus on neuroplasticity and cognitive rehabilitation in individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). His pioneering work has explored the effects of technology-based cognitive interventions on brain function and structure, shedding light on novel approaches to enhance cognitive functioning and quality of life for TBI patients. His research spans from investigating the impact of processing speed on memory in brain injury survivors to exploring coping mechanisms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Dr. Voelbel has made significant contributions to understanding the neural correlates of executive dysfunction and problem-solving deficits in substance use disorder populations.
Accolades and Recognition
Assoc Prof Dr . Voelbel's contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, including the Leon Greenberg Memorial Dissertation Award, the National Academy of Neuropsychology Student Award, and the Steinhardt Full-Time Professional Development Fund Award, among others. He was also named Alumni of the Year by Rutgers University's Department of PM&R and Kessler Research Foundation in 2021.
Impact and Influence: Dr. Voelbel's research has had a profound impact on the field of neuropsychology and rehabilitation medicine, shaping clinical practice and guiding intervention strategies for individuals with brain injuries. His innovative approaches to cognitive rehabilitation have paved the way for personalized and technology-enhanced interventions, offering hope and improved outcomes for patients worldwide.
Legacy and Future Contributions
As a leader in the field, Assoc Prof Dr . Voelbel continues to inspire future generations of researchers and clinicians through his mentorship and collaborative efforts. His legacy lies in his relentless pursuit of knowledge and his commitment to improving the lives of individuals affected by brain injuries. With a focus on neuroplasticity and cognitive remediation, Dr. Voelbel's ongoing research promises to further advance our understanding of brain function and inform innovative interventions for neurological disorders.
Citations
- Citations 772
- h-index 13
- i10-index 15
Notable Publication
- An Examination of Positive and Negative Outcomes During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Persons With Multiple Sclerosis American Journal of Occupational TherapyThis link is disabled., 2023 Genova, H.M., Chen, M.H., Botticello, A., ...Arnett, P., Goverover, Y.
- Relationships between changes in daily occupations and health-related quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic Multiple Sclerosis and Related DisordersThis link is disabled., 2022 Goverover, Y., Chen, M.H., Botticello, A., ...DeLuca, J., Genova, H.M.
- The effects of neuroplasticity-based auditory information processing remediation in adults with chronic traumatic brain injury NeuroRehabilitationThis link is disabled., 2021 Voelbel, G.T., Lindsey, H.M., Mercuri, G., Bushnik, T., Rath, J.
- An investigation of Cogmed working memory training for neurological surgery patients Interdisciplinary Neurosurgery: Advanced Techniques and Case ManagementThis link is disabled., 2020 Liberta, T.A., Kagiwada, M., Ho, K., ...McLean, E.A., Sacks-Zimmerman, A.
- Catalyzing Research to Optimize Cancer Survivors’ Participation in Work and Life Roles OTJR Occupation, Participation and HealthThis link is disabled., 2019 Newman, R.M., Alfano, C.M., Radomski, M.V., ...Srivastava, P., Lyons, K.D.