Dr. Lucci’s thesis, “Cardiovascular autonomic control after spinal cord injury: Comprehensive investigations into classification and care” examines the impact of spinal cord injury on the autonomic nervous system. Dr. Lucci’s comprehensive research has significant implications for how autonomic dysfunction after spinal cord injury is treated, managed, and researched.  Throughout the research process, Dr. Lucci worked closely with patient partner organizations to develop relevant and meaningful clinical investigations.

Dr. Lucci’s contribution extends well beyond her written thesis. Along with many academic achievements and publications, Dr. Lucci received numerous awards, including a BC SUPPORT Unit Graduate Fellowship and the inaugural Bastion of BPK Graduate Award for her continued involved in BPK graduate life.

Dr. Victoria Claydon of SFU’s Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology was so impressed by the research she said Dr. Lucci “has already established herself as an emerging world leader in her discipline.”

Of her time at SFU, Dr. Lucci says, “Pursuing graduate studies at SFU undoubtably changed the course of my life. I am indebted to those who have supported my pursuits in all facets of academic life – especially Dr. Victoria Claydon, under whose supervision and training I forged my identity as a researcher and academic. I am grateful I was afforded the time and opportunity to explore and engage in the many opportunities SFU provides to graduate students. It is humbling to be awarded this medal in recognition of work I gladly undertook. With a sense of great responsibility, this recognition will serve as a steadfast reminder to continue to pursue truth and excellence in the years to come.”

Dr. Lucci currently holds a CIHR Postdoctoral Fellowship at SFU where she is researching the cardiovascular mechanisms of syncope (fainting), remaining under the supervision of Dr. Victoria Claydon.