About Us: Research and Program Staff

May Aydin, PhD
Research and Survey Support Manager

May Aydin, PhD, is a research and survey support manager for the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). She supports the CHIS staff on methodological and survey operational issues and on independent research projects.

Prior to the Center, Aydin worked as a research consultant for the Massachusetts Association of Older Americans, Inc. She worked on a qualitative research project, looking at mental healthcare access needs of older adult members in a community. Aydin conducted program development and implementation of conferences aimed at educating community-based social workers, registered nurses and mental health care professionals in Massachusetts. Other work experiences include assisting in project development and needs assessment of community programs, serving as a community liaison between various community organizations and the university, and developing and organizing databases. She has also performed statistical analysis, aided in development and writing of institute reports, and presented at numerous gerontological national conferences.

Aydin's personal research interests include predictors of retirement planning, international aging, and mental health as it relates to war, trauma and the life course issues for older civilians. She received her B.A. in Psychology from Whittier College and her M.S. in Gerontology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Aydin also earned a doctorate in Gerontology. She loves animals, nature and trips to the Mediterranean.