For Immediate Release May 27, 2011	Contact: Todd Kluss This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (202) 587-2839

Gerontology Expert To Strengthen U.S./China Ties as GSA’s First Visiting Scholar

The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) — the nation’s largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to the field of aging — has named Ning Jackie Zhang, MD, PhD, MPH, as the first participant in its Visiting Scholar Program.

In this capacity, Zhang will play an active role in furthering GSA’s China Initiative, which seeks to foster the development of strong linkages and collaboration between gerontologists in the U.S. and China. As a result of the initiative, the number of GSA members in China has grown over the last two years to 43 individuals at 22 institutions in eight major cities.

“Dr. Zhang’s expertise will allow us to cultivate important relationships at Chinese universities, hospitals, government agencies, and professional associations.” said GSA Executive Director James Appleby, RPh, MPH. “I look forward to working with him as we foster research that will benefit the aging population around the world.”

Zhang is an active GSA member, most prominently serving as a convener of the organization’s Chinese Gerontology Studies Interest Group. His appointment as a visiting scholar will take place during the 2011–2012 academic year.

He currently is an associate professor of public affairs and health management and informatics at the University of Central Florida. His ongoing scholarly interests there are centered in clinical outcomes research, long-term care research, emergency medical services, and health informatics.

“I am excited to be part of the effort to expand GSA’s impact and reach in China and other Asian countries and stimulate translational aging studies and communications among international geriatric and gerontological professionals,” Zhang said. “I am humbled by the journey ahead of me and wish to make significant contributions to these important projects along with the support of GSA leadership team and staff members.”

While working on the China Initiative, Zhang will have several responsibilities. He will oversee the training and mentoring of students and junior scholars who focus on Chinese gerontology studies. He additionally will aid in the development of GSA’s Campus Representative Program, which seeks to recruit faculty members at Chinese institutions to serve as the Society’s liaison to researchers, educators, and clinicians. Zhang also is expected to establish working relationships with other Chinese organizations such as the China Medical Tribune, the Gerontological Society of China, and the China Department of Health.

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The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) is the nation's oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, and practice in the field of aging. The principal mission of the Society — and its 5,400+ members — is to advance the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision makers, and the general public. GSA’s structure also includes a policy institute, the National Academy on an Aging Society, and an educational branch, the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education.