Francesca Nicosia

Francesca Nicosia, PhD, is an esteemed Associate Professor at the Institute for Health & Aging within the School of Nursing at the University of California, San Francisco. With a robust background in medical anthropology and health services research, Dr. Nicosia is also a certified yoga therapist. Her work is primarily centered on enhancing pain management, functionality, and quality of life for older adults, women, and veterans. She achieves this through the exploration and implementation of nonpharmacologic and complementary health interventions. Dr. Nicosia's research expertise is particularly focused on the design and execution of mixed methods studies, especially in the fields of aging, complementary and integrative health, and implementation science. Her innovative approach has led her to engage in a variety of research activities and funding projects. These include the evaluation of telehealth interventions, the application of yoga as a therapeutic modality, and strategies to prevent the loss of independence through exercise. Her scholarly contributions are extensive, with numerous publications that delve into critical topics such as mindful movement within healthcare systems, addressing functional impairment in middle age, and developing integrative movement programs tailored for older adults. Dr. Nicosia's work not only contributes to academic discourse but also has practical implications for improving health outcomes in diverse populations. In addition to her research, Dr. Nicosia is actively involved in mentoring students and collaborating with fellow researchers to advance the field of health and aging. Her dedication to her field is evident in her commitment to translating research findings into actionable strategies that can be implemented in real-world settings. Dr. Nicosia's passion for her work is driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves. Her holistic approach to health and aging continues to inspire both her peers and the next generation of researchers in the field.