Kathleen Sitter

Kathleen Sitter is a Research Professor at the Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, and an Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at Memorial University. She holds the Canada Research Chair in Multisensory Research and Knowledge Translation and leads the Multisensory Studio Lab.

Educational Background

• Doctor of Philosophy (2012)
• Master of Social Work (2008)
• Master of Communication Studies (2002)
• Bachelor of Public Relations (1997)

Kathleen's research focuses on innovative sensory and arts-based methodologies for knowledge translation, particularly in disability, mental health, and social justice contexts. Her work includes developing digital storytelling as therapy, creating theatre/film for research dissemination, and exploring smellmaps, soundscapes, and 4-D installations.

Trends in Publications: Her articles emphasize participatory arts, accessibility, and interdisciplinary approaches, spanning social work, disability studies, and mental health interventions.

Scientific Awards:

• Dorothy Killam Fellow (2024)
• Killam Emerging Research Leader Award (2023)
• Research Innovation Award (2021)
• Canada Research Chair (2020)
• Teaching Excellence Award (2019)

Kathleen has secured over $11 million in research funding and produced 200+ arts-based works. She teaches courses in qualitative methods, disability studies, and participatory arts. Her lab, the Multisensory Studio, integrates creative practices with social work pedagogy.