معرفی
Sigan Hartley is a Professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison's School of Human Ecology and holds the 100 Women Distinguished Chair in Human Ecology. As a clinical psychologist and Waisman Center Investigator, her research focuses on promoting health and well-being for individuals with developmental disabilities (including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and fragile X syndrome) and their families through multifaceted methodologies.
- Current research examines Alzheimer's disease in Down syndrome through the NIH-funded Alzheimer’s Biomarker Consortium–Down Syndrome (ABC-DS)
- Investigates interactions between biological, cognitive, and environmental factors across the lifespan
- Employs daily diaries, medical record reviews, and neuroimaging techniques
Her work identifies modifiable lifestyle factors for clinical trials while addressing systemic exclusion of developmental disability communities from healthcare. Key contributions include:
- Elucidating connections between parental mental health and child outcomes in autism
- Developing cognitive behavioral therapy adaptations for adults with intellectual disabilities
- Leading cross-disciplinary collaborations with Down syndrome organizations and self-advocates
Selected scientific recognitions include:
- 100 Women Distinguished Chair in Human Ecology
- NIH funding for Alzheimer’s disease and Down syndrome studies
Her lab trains researchers through consortium participation and community-engaged science practices.
