Melanie M. Merrill

Melanie M. Merrill is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Science at the University at Buffalo. She has over 25 years of clinical experience in pediatric occupational therapy, specializing in rehabilitation, acute care, and school-based settings. She is certified in neuro-developmental treatment. Her teaching spans courses in Human Growth and Development, Medical Conditions, Professional Orientation to OT, and Evidence-Based Practice.

Education:

• BS in Occupational Therapy, University at Buffalo, 1988
• MS in Occupational Therapy, University at Buffalo, 1993 (Thesis: "Use of the Bruininks Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency by Occupational Therapists")
• OTD in Occupational Therapy, Boston University, 2019 (Project: Increasing Cultural Competence through Project H.O.P.E.)

Research Interests: Focuses on culturally competent healthcare, underserved populations, pediatric neurorehabilitation, and sensory integration. Her doctoral project, Project H.O.P.E., emphasizes global health initiatives to improve occupational therapy access worldwide.

Teaching & Advising: Instructs courses such as OT for Underserved Populations, Neurorehabilitation, and Sensory Integration. Provides research guidance for students through OT 575/576.曾协调儿科医学和成人医学课程，指导多个实验室模块。

Labs/Teams: Involved in initiatives like Project H.O.P.E., integrating global health and cultural competence into occupational therapy practice.