Graduate Student

Rowan is an incoming PhD student in Rice's Health Psychology program. She completed her MPH in Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics at the University of Michigan, where she also completed her dietetic internship and is on track to become a registered dietitian. She is interested in studying the psychological mechanisms of weight stigma and its effects on eating behaviors and disordered eating, with a commitment to weight-inclusive, non-diet approaches to health. In her free time, you can find Rowan outside running, hiking, reading, exploring new places, or trying new restaurants.

Lab Manager

Lorena got her B.S. in Psychological Sciences and M.S. in Neuroscience at WPI, a polytechnic college in Massachusetts. Her research interests are focused on the various facets of health behaviors and health disparities. Her hobbies include running, reading & crocheting!

Student Research Assistant

Zabrina is a senior at Rice majoring in Health Sciences, with minors in Medical Humanities, Biochemistry and Cell Biology, and a Certificate in Spanish. On campus, she spends her time as a Fellow at the Multicultural Center, Captain of Rice Bhangra, and Peer Academic Advisor for McMurtry College. Off campus, Zabrina spends her time volunteering with Food Not Bombs, and leading Pay it Forward, an equity-centered college access initiative providing individualized support to high school students. Passionate about the intersection of health policy, education, and equity, Zabrina aspires to become a physician leader who advocates for accessible, community-centered care.

Student Research Assistant

Maylin is a freshman at the University of Houston studying Biochemical and Biophysical Sciences, passionate about how neurobiology and psychology can improve preventive medicine. Dedicated to community health, she volunteers with UH Cougar Chain to improve health literacy among Vietnamese seniors. In her free time, Maylin enjoys traditional lion dancing, exploring Houston cafes, and taking scenic road trips.

Student Research Assistant

Linda is a psychology student at Rice University with a growing interest in health and human behavior. On campus, she is involved in independent research, where she experiments on neutrophils and explores topics related to cognition, memory, and overall well-being. She is also a member of the Best Buddies Club. Outside of her academic work, Linda enjoys swimming, watching movies, and practicing ballet, which help her stay active, creative, and balanced. She is motivated by curiosity and is particularly interested in understanding how psychological and physical health intersect in everyday life, with the goal of applying this perspective to future research and real-world impact.

Student Research Assistant

Sakhi is a freshman at Rice University studying Health Sciences with a minor in Medical Humanities. She is passionate about understanding human behavior and mental well-being. She is involved in research on pediatric bipolar disorder, exploring the impact of children’s mental health. Sakhi is also an active member of Camp Kesem, contributing to programs that support children affected by parental cancer. Outside of school, Sakhi loves to bake, crochet, and do other creative activities that help maintain balance in her life!

Student Research Assistant

Nancy is a health sciences student at Rice University. She is very interested in understanding preventative care and how health behavior changes can contribute to overall well-being. Nancy is also a current member of the Rice Program Council, planning events that cater to and give back to Rice’s undergraduate population. When she is not busy with academic work, she loves to walk with her friends, sketch, and garden.

Student Research Assistant

Tess Mansfield is a junior at Rice University, double majoring in Psychology and English. She is fascinated by the relationship between mental and physical health, and how the study of this intersection can work to provide evidence-based practices for the betterment of both. On campus, she is involved with Rice's literary magazine and Hanszen College. Beyond the world of Rice, Tess loves running, enjoying the outdoors, coffee shops, reading, crafting, and any excuse to drink a cup of tea!

You could be the newest SWEL Lab member! If you are interested in joining our lab please visit our ‘Join Us’ page!