Luciana Lagana

Dr. Luciana Lagana is a distinguished full professor in the Department of Psychology at California State University, Northridge (CSUN). With a profound dedication to understanding the complexities of human behavior, Dr. Lagana leads the "Adult Behavioral Medicine Laboratory" at CSUN. Her research is centered around the physical, psychosocial, and sexual needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a particular focus on older women. In her research endeavors, Dr. Lagana is committed to developing and validating scales that measure the social and psychological needs of older women, especially those from non-Caucasian and low-income communities. Her work is instrumental in shedding light on the unique challenges faced by these populations, aiming to improve their quality of life and access to healthcare services. Currently, Dr. Lagana is the principal investigator of an NIH-funded grant that explores trauma, PTSD, and health disparities among multiethnic older women. This research is pivotal in addressing the barriers these women encounter and in reducing unnecessary healthcare visits, thereby enhancing their overall well-being. Dr. Lagana's research lab is renowned for its productivity and its commitment to student engagement. She actively involves her students in the research process, encouraging them to co-author research manuscripts and present their findings at national and international conferences. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in psychology and related fields. Beyond her research, Dr. Lagana is a staunch advocate for underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She participates in government-funded programs aimed at mentoring and nurturing minority students, guiding them towards academic and professional success. Her dedication to diversity and inclusion is evident in her efforts to create opportunities for students from all backgrounds.