Elisa Torres
Position title: Current KL2 Scholar
Elisa Torres, PhD, RN, is an Assistant Professor in the UW-Madison School of Nursing. Torres’ research program involves body-mind connections, specifically physical activity and mood. Her current research is aimed at determining potential mechanisms by which physical activity can decrease depressive symptoms. In particular, studies in her lab examine relationships among different types and intensities of physical activity across the lifespan, brain changes as seen on MRI, and measurement of moods (positive and negative – depression in particular). Torres is also interested in how physical activity can decrease risk for dementia, particularly in adults at increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
Torres’ mentors are Andy Alexander, PhD (SMPH, Medical Physics and Psychiatry), Bruce Barrett, MD, PhD (SMPH, Family Medicine), and Diane Lauver, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FAAN (School of Nursing).