RSI Alumna Turns Entrepreneur, Advancing Clinical Practices with XR Technology

How did one alumna’s PhD journey at RSI inspire her to build her own business that empowers researchers to collect data on human behavior through custom interactive virtual experiences?

It all began during Kyla Alsbury-Nealy's time under the mentorship of Dr. Nancy Salbach, whose groundbreaking research on the Together in Movement and Exercise (TIME^TM) program—a community-based exercise initiative for individuals with mobility challenges—ignited her passion for bridging gaps in rehabilitation science.

Inspired by how programs like TIME^TM address gaps in health care systems, Kyla explored ways to enhance connections between health care providers and community services. Her research revealed the critical role of “boundary spanners” – individuals who facilitate referrals and foster collaboration between health care and community organizations.

Since completing her PhD at RSI, Kyla has continued to break new ground as a Community Health Program Coordinator, designing exercise programs that empower older adults and individuals with mobility challenges to maintain health and reduce secondary complications. Additionally, she co-founded SilicoLabs, a company at the forefront of extended reality technology, enabling researchers to simulate real-world experiences and gather richer data to improve clinical practices.

Kyla’s success reflects the versatility of RSI’s curriculum, demonstrating how graduates can lead meaningful change in public health, policy, and community-based services. Her work also underscores the value of mentorship at RSI, where faculty, like Dr. Salbach, guide students to innovate and thrive in diverse career paths.

We are incredibly proud of Kyla’s accomplishments and her ongoing contributions to rehabilitation sciences.

To learn more about Kyla's work and her inspiring career journey, visit: the Physical Therapy website