Community and Outreach

Two Harper Laboratory researchers at a UAH Kinesiology table at a community event, with flyers for the stair contrast markings study laid out in front of them.

Meeting people where they are

The laboratory takes its research out to health fairs, senior centers and campus events across Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley. These events are how most of our participants first hear about a study, and how we hear what older adults in the community actually worry about on stairs.

Dr. Sara Harper speaking at a lectern at the 2026 Slips, Trips and Falls International Conference, in front of a slide titled Vision-based Interventions to Improve Stair Safety.

Bringing the field to Huntsville

In June 2026 the laboratory hosted the Slips, Trips and Falls International Conference at UAH, endorsed by the International Ergonomics Association. Dr. Harper chaired the meeting, which brought researchers, code officials and industry together in Huntsville. The conference moves to London in 2027.

Teaching and talks

Courses through OLLI at UAH

A Matter of Balance
Tai Chi and balance
Moving Onto 80
4th Quarter Decisions
Stairway Safety

We welcomed the Master Your Balance class to the Harper Lab in September 2026.

Invite the laboratory

To ask about a talk, a class or a demonstration for your group, email harperlab@uah.edu or call 256-824-2184.