Sam Liu

Dr. Sam Liu is an Associate Professor at the School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education at the University of Victoria, Canada. As Lab Director of the Digital Health Lab (located in the McKinnon Building), he focuses on leveraging digital technologies like mobile apps, social media, and big data to enhance chronic disease prevention, physical activity promotion, and health surveillance. His work integrates behavioral science with cutting-edge digital tools to create personalized health interventions.

His research spans two primary domains: (1) developing digital communication technologies for chronic disease prevention, and (2) utilizing big data to predict health behaviors and outcomes. Key projects include the Activerse app for physical activity, MoodMover for depression management, and PainCaRe for pediatric cancer pain support, all reflecting his commitment to user-centered design and real-world applicability.

• Keywords: Digital Health, mHealth, eHealth, Physical Activity, Chronic Disease Prevention, Big Data Analytics
• Subfields: Just-in-Time Adaptive Interventions, Wearable Technologies, Gamification for Health, Virtual Reality Cognitive Training, Postpartum Health Interventions, Adolescent Behavioral Analysis

The Digital Health Lab actively recruits participants across diverse studies, including:

• Chatbots for diabetes management (exploring AI applications)
• Virtual reality cognitive training for older adults
• IBD-Move app for inflammatory bowel disease patients

While Sam Liu has not received publicly listed scientific awards in this text, his lab has secured grants like the SSHRC Partnerships Engage Grant for team members, highlighting collaborative funding approaches. Current projects emphasize accessibility, with studies requiring Apple Watches, diabetes patients, and family-based interventions to improve health outcomes through technology.