Kunin Lunenfeld Applied and Evaluative Research Unit (KLAERU) is an evaluative science and research support unit that facilitates the translation of pure and applied science into validated clinical and treatment interventions.

Scientists in KLAERU build on, contribute to and extrapolate from the world-renowned expertise in basic cognitive neuroscience found at the Rotman Research Institute.

Social workers at Baycrest enjoy the unique opportunity to avail themselves of the resources and expertise of the scientists at the Katz Centre for Gerontological Research in Social Work and either participate in existing research projects or receive consultation for developing new ones.

An Evaluative Model

KLAERU scientists develop and evaluate strategies for the prevention, attenuation, treatment and management of neurocognitive, neurobehavioural, mental disorders of aging, dementia, stroke and other related diseases from of a variety of disciplinary perspectives.

Consultation services for design and evaluation

KLAERU also houses a centralized research resource comprised of consultants knowledgeable in the design and conduct of research. Members provide assistance in study design, data collection and analysis, research ethics, and regulatory navigation. These resources support and facilitate clinical research activities and the evaluation of new interventions in clinical contexts.

KLAERU contributes:

• evaluative and research design expertise to the innovation engine, including outcome and process evaluation, study design, data management and analysis.
• in commercial product evaluation on a fee-for-service basis.

Research Chairs

Two University Chairs are formally affiliated with KLAERU – the Honey & Norman Schipper Chair in Gerontological Social Work, and the Ben & Hilda Katz Chair in Gerontological Nursing Research. These prestigious chairs provide research and mentorship cornerstones for KLAERU.