James Allen was a Master’s student in the Motor Learning and Control program at Teachers College, Columbia University, who graduated in 2021.
He earned a BS in Bioengineering from Syracuse University, where he and his senior capstone design group took pride in successfully constructing a strengthening and correcting exoskeleton for a client who had primary progressive Multiple Sclerosis.
At the University of Delaware and Upstate Medical University Institute for Human Performance, James developed a strong overall interest in biomechanics through his capstone project and professional internships conducting biomechanical research of the knee and spine. Given his bioengineering background, in combination with his passion for human movement, he decided to pursue his master’s degree at Teachers College to generate a better understanding of biomechanics theoretically and how various diseases impacts human movement.
He continued to actively develop his experience, which resulted in an internship at the New York Sports Science Lab in Staten Island, where he learned how biomechanics could be employed for sports to improve athletic performance and prevent injury.
James served as the Lab Manager of the Biomechanics Research Lab at Teachers College and also used to run the NRL website.
James Allen was a Master’s student in the Motor Learning and Control program at Teachers College, Columbia University, who graduated in 2021.
He earned a BS in Bioengineering from Syracuse University, where he and his senior capstone design group took pride in successfully constructing a strengthening and correcting exoskeleton for a client who had primary progressive Multiple Sclerosis.
At the University of Delaware and Upstate Medical University Institute for Human Performance, James developed a strong overall interest in biomechanics through his capstone project and professional internships conducting biomechanical research of the knee and spine. Given his bioengineering background, in combination with his passion for human movement, he decided to pursue his master’s degree at Teachers College to generate a better understanding of biomechanics theoretically and how various diseases impacts human movement.
He continued to actively develop his experience, which resulted in an internship at the New York Sports Science Lab in Staten Island, where he learned how biomechanics could be employed for sports to improve athletic performance and prevent injury.
James served as the Lab Manager of the Biomechanics Research Lab at Teachers College and also used to run the NRL website.
Ahmad is a masters student in the Motor Learning and Control program. He graduated from Duke University with a dual degree in biology and anthropology. As an undergrad, Ahmad worked in the Michael W. Krzyzewski Human Performance Laboratory (K-Lab). His research focused on quantifying postural stability restoration following ACL reconstruction. He hopes to continue using technology to visualize movement patterns and tackle motor deficits. Outside of Teachers College, Ahmad also works with the Pain & Spine Institute of New York as a Research Fellow.
In his free time, he enjoys powerlifting, cycling, and cooking.
Ahmad is a masters student in the Motor Learning and Control program. He graduated from Duke University with a dual degree in biology and anthropology. As an undergrad, Ahmad worked in the Michael W. Krzyzewski Human Performance Laboratory (K-Lab). His research focused on quantifying postural stability restoration following ACL reconstruction. He hopes to continue using technology to visualize movement patterns and tackle motor deficits. Outside of Teachers College, Ahmad also works with the Pain & Spine Institute of New York as a Research Fellow.
In his free time, he enjoys powerlifting, cycling, and cooking.
Dr. Bishop is a physical therapist who has a background in working with chronic stroke survivors and robotic devices. She received her BS in Exercise Science from the Florida State University in 1999, and her DPT from the University of Miami in 2004. She has experience working with patients with a variety of functional deficits, but for the past several years has been working specifically with robotic rehabilitation devices in a population of stroke survivors. Her research interests include understanding the role of manual guidance utilizing robotic devices in chronic stroke survivors to improve deficits in gait.
When not working in the lab and studying, she enjoys running, cooking, reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her dog, Mo.
Dr. Bishop is a physical therapist who has a background in working with chronic stroke survivors and robotic devices. She received her BS in Exercise Science from the Florida State University in 1999, and her DPT from the University of Miami in 2004. She has experience working with patients with a variety of functional deficits, but for the past several years has been working specifically with robotic rehabilitation devices in a population of stroke survivors. Her research interests include understanding the role of manual guidance utilizing robotic devices in chronic stroke survivors to improve deficits in gait.
When not working in the lab and studying, she enjoys running, cooking, reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her dog, Mo.
Miguel Blacutt was an EdM student in Motor Learning & Control at Teachers College. He graduated from McGill University with a BS in Nutritional Biochemistry, where his studies focused on protein metabolism. After graduating from McGill, he assisted in R-01 funded research at the Yale School of Medicine, which aimed at developing a novel psychometric tool for understanding movement behavior.
At the NRL, Miguel aimed to understand neurological and movement related disorders, specifically in Huntington’s and Parkinson’s disease. He also collaborated with Dr. Andy Gordon's lab in basic sensorimotor control research, was offered to conduct research at Oxford University to aid in the development of a novel class of small molecules that stimulate stem cell proliferation in situ, and worked with CSU Fullerton to understand the effects of fasting on muscle physiology and anabolic signalling.
Miguel is passionate about neuromuscular science, both in clinical and sport settings. He places a large emphasis on the importance of science communication, and has grown an audience of 19,000 followers on Instagram by illustrating scientific studies (@MBlacutt).
Miguel Blacutt was an EdM student in Motor Learning & Control at Teachers College. He graduated from McGill University with a BS in Nutritional Biochemistry, where his studies focused on protein metabolism. After graduating from McGill, he assisted in R-01 funded research at the Yale School of Medicine, which aimed at developing a novel psychometric tool for understanding movement behavior.
At the NRL, Miguel aimed to understand neurological and movement related disorders, specifically in Huntington’s and Parkinson’s disease. He also collaborated with Dr. Andy Gordon's lab in basic sensorimotor control research, was offered to conduct research at Oxford University to aid in the development of a novel class of small molecules that stimulate stem cell proliferation in situ, and worked with CSU Fullerton to understand the effects of fasting on muscle physiology and anabolic signalling.
Miguel is passionate about neuromuscular science, both in clinical and sport settings. He places a large emphasis on the importance of science communication, and has grown an audience of 19,000 followers on Instagram by illustrating scientific studies (@MBlacutt).
Dr. Desai earned her PhD in Kinesiology from Teachers College, Biobehavioral Sciences. Her Doctoral dissertation title was "The neurophysiological correlates of gait initiation in individuals with Huntington's and Parkinson's disease." In the NRL, she was involved in many projects, including and not limited to:
- Haptic Feedback Device for Reduction of Action Tremor in those with Parkinson's Disease or Essential Tremor (Emma Watch)
- Neurophysiological motor patterns of individuals with Huntington's and Parkinson's disease (HD-Gait Initiation)
- Huntington's Disease Postural Control
- Characterizing heart rate variability in people with Huntington's disease and healthy controls during exercise (HRV)
- Validity and reliability of the Inertial measurement units system for gait assessment among post-stroke population (Stroke APDM)
- Physical activity and exercise outcomes in Huntington's Disease (PACE)
Dr. Desai earned her PhD in Kinesiology from Teachers College, Biobehavioral Sciences. Her Doctoral dissertation title was "The neurophysiological correlates of gait initiation in individuals with Huntington's and Parkinson's disease." In the NRL, she was involved in many projects, including and not limited to:
- Haptic Feedback Device for Reduction of Action Tremor in those with Parkinson's Disease or Essential Tremor (Emma Watch)
- Neurophysiological motor patterns of individuals with Huntington's and Parkinson's disease (HD-Gait Initiation)
- Huntington's Disease Postural Control
- Characterizing heart rate variability in people with Huntington's disease and healthy controls during exercise (HRV)
- Validity and reliability of the Inertial measurement units system for gait assessment among post-stroke population (Stroke APDM)
- Physical activity and exercise outcomes in Huntington's Disease (PACE)
Avery was an intern at the NRL. She was a student at Colorado College studying molecular biology, as well as human biology and kinesiology. She is interested in joining ski patrol out west before pursuing medical school.
Outside of class, she worked in the varsity athletic department as a physical therapy student aide, plays rugby, and bakes.
Avery was an intern at the NRL. She was a student at Colorado College studying molecular biology, as well as human biology and kinesiology. She is interested in joining ski patrol out west before pursuing medical school.
Outside of class, she worked in the varsity athletic department as a physical therapy student aide, plays rugby, and bakes.
Brian Espinoza received his BA in Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science with a concentration in Exercise Science from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. He has previously taught nutrition to at-risk populations and worked with college athletes as a personal trainer. In 2020, he graduated with a M.A. degree in Motor Learning and Control from Teachers College, Columbia University. While studying Motor Learning and Control, Brian served as a Research Assistant in the NRL. His research interests include the effects of exercise on Parkinson’s and Huntington’s Disease.
In his free time, Brian likes to make exercise programs for friends and colleagues while also researching new exercises and their benefits.
Brian Espinoza received his BA in Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science with a concentration in Exercise Science from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. He has previously taught nutrition to at-risk populations and worked with college athletes as a personal trainer. In 2020, he graduated with a M.A. degree in Motor Learning and Control from Teachers College, Columbia University. While studying Motor Learning and Control, Brian served as a Research Assistant in the NRL. His research interests include the effects of exercise on Parkinson’s and Huntington’s Disease.
In his free time, Brian likes to make exercise programs for friends and colleagues while also researching new exercises and their benefits.
Florencia was raised in Mexico. She studied a year of Visual Arts in Italy and later received her BA in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Melbourne. In Mexico, she worked as a hippotherapist, using horses as means to achieve psychotherapeutic goals.
She is now enrolled in a Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Boston University. In addition to being a member of the NRL, she volunteers at the PT/OT department in the NewYork-Presbyterian Children’s Hospital and the Milstein Inpatient Rehabilitation Center. Florencia feels a strong curiosity about the physiology of the brain. Her main interest lies in neurorehabilitation, particularly in individuals with neurodegenerative conditions. She wants to better understand the neuroprotective factors to prevent, delay, or diminish the motor symptoms of such conditions.
In her free time, she enjoys swimming, yoga, reading, oil painting, hiking, and camping. Florencia’s perfect morning involves an early run in the hope of spotting some dogs and their loving owners.
Florencia was raised in Mexico. She studied a year of Visual Arts in Italy and later received her BA in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Melbourne. In Mexico, she worked as a hippotherapist, using horses as means to achieve psychotherapeutic goals.
She is now enrolled in a Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Boston University. In addition to being a member of the NRL, she volunteers at the PT/OT department in the NewYork-Presbyterian Children’s Hospital and the Milstein Inpatient Rehabilitation Center. Florencia feels a strong curiosity about the physiology of the brain. Her main interest lies in neurorehabilitation, particularly in individuals with neurodegenerative conditions. She wants to better understand the neuroprotective factors to prevent, delay, or diminish the motor symptoms of such conditions.
In her free time, she enjoys swimming, yoga, reading, oil painting, hiking, and camping. Florencia’s perfect morning involves an early run in the hope of spotting some dogs and their loving owners.
Paige Fuentes was a master’s student in the Neuroscience and Education program and joined the NRL under the guidance of Dr. Lori Quinn. She was interested in exploring the subject of neurodegenerative motor disorders and eager to gain experience in the realm of rehabilitation.
She enjoys crafting, traveling, and doting on her bulldog.
Paige Fuentes was a master’s student in the Neuroscience and Education program and joined the NRL under the guidance of Dr. Lori Quinn. She was interested in exploring the subject of neurodegenerative motor disorders and eager to gain experience in the realm of rehabilitation.
She enjoys crafting, traveling, and doting on her bulldog.
Liri Haram was a student in the Neuroscience and Education program at Teachers College, Columbia University, graduating with a Master's degree in 2022. She was an experienced physiotherapist in the pediatric and pelvic health arenas in Israel, with a B.P.T. from Tel-Aviv University. Liri’s current research interests include psychoneuroimmunological outcomes and interventions in neurodegenerative, post-TBI, and pediatric populations. As co-founder of The Synapse, a Teachers College student organization, she aims to make neuroscience knowledge accessible to all.
She is also a passionate Pilates instructor, yoga and baking enthusiast, and a proud dog owner.
Liri Haram was a student in the Neuroscience and Education program at Teachers College, Columbia University, graduating with a Master's degree in 2022. She was an experienced physiotherapist in the pediatric and pelvic health arenas in Israel, with a B.P.T. from Tel-Aviv University. Liri’s current research interests include psychoneuroimmunological outcomes and interventions in neurodegenerative, post-TBI, and pediatric populations. As co-founder of The Synapse, a Teachers College student organization, she aims to make neuroscience knowledge accessible to all.
She is also a passionate Pilates instructor, yoga and baking enthusiast, and a proud dog owner.
Amy Jang worked on research at the NRL and at Columbia Engineering Laboratory for Intelligent Imaging and Neural Computing.
She has always had a strong desire and passion to motivate local students. At the end of the eighth grade, Amy put her passion to action and started Youth Hope Summit, a nonprofit organization that strives to empower students and youth in the community to pursue a college education and emphasizes the importance of making college education accessible to all.
In addition to her passion for volunteering, Amy has a keen interest and love for all things STEM, with a focus on bioinformatics. She interned at the University of Southern California Information Science Institute during junior year summer, where she developed a prototype semantic representation of ENIGMA, a global neuroscience consortium. She published her work in multiple research papers and technical papers, including “Designing an Ontology for the ENIGMA Neuroscience Collaboration” and “Automatic Generation of Portions of Scientific Papers for Large Multi-Institutional Collaborations Based on Semantic Metadata,” which was part of the proceedings of the International Semantic Web Conference.
She also participated in the Knowledge Capture and Discovery Hackathon, winning the award for Best Interdisciplinary Collaboration. Amy also collaborated with Edwards Lifesciences to create a prototype version of an automated heart valve sewing machine.Her passion for bioinformatics also led to her participating in many club-related activities.
Outside of STEM and volunteering, Amy loves to play piano and has performed at various recital halls, including Carnegie Hall. In her free time, Amy loves being up in the sky, whether that be ziplining or parasailing, and looks forward to skydiving and bungee jumping one day!
Amy Jang worked on research at the NRL and at Columbia Engineering Laboratory for Intelligent Imaging and Neural Computing.
She has always had a strong desire and passion to motivate local students. At the end of the eighth grade, Amy put her passion to action and started Youth Hope Summit, a nonprofit organization that strives to empower students and youth in the community to pursue a college education and emphasizes the importance of making college education accessible to all.
In addition to her passion for volunteering, Amy has a keen interest and love for all things STEM, with a focus on bioinformatics. She interned at the University of Southern California Information Science Institute during junior year summer, where she developed a prototype semantic representation of ENIGMA, a global neuroscience consortium. She published her work in multiple research papers and technical papers, including “Designing an Ontology for the ENIGMA Neuroscience Collaboration” and “Automatic Generation of Portions of Scientific Papers for Large Multi-Institutional Collaborations Based on Semantic Metadata,” which was part of the proceedings of the International Semantic Web Conference.
She also participated in the Knowledge Capture and Discovery Hackathon, winning the award for Best Interdisciplinary Collaboration. Amy also collaborated with Edwards Lifesciences to create a prototype version of an automated heart valve sewing machine.Her passion for bioinformatics also led to her participating in many club-related activities.
Outside of STEM and volunteering, Amy loves to play piano and has performed at various recital halls, including Carnegie Hall. In her free time, Amy loves being up in the sky, whether that be ziplining or parasailing, and looks forward to skydiving and bungee jumping one day!
Shreya Jain completed the master’s program in Motor Learning and Control at TC in December 2018. During the course of the program, she worked in the NRL under the guidance of Dr. Lori Quinn.
She graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Birla Institute of Technology and Science in Pilani, India, where she worked as a Project Assistant for a year in a neurobiology research laboratory at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research. Working on projects dealing with Parkinson’s disease inclined her research interests towards motor control and movement rehabilitation using non-pharmaceutical, exercise-based methods. She is now a doctoral student at the University of Southern California Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, working with Dr. James Finley on investigating locomotor learning and control in people with Parkinson's Disease and designing effective interventions.
She enjoys dancing, and has been trained in the Indian classical dance form of Odissi.
Shreya Jain completed the master’s program in Motor Learning and Control at TC in December 2018. During the course of the program, she worked in the NRL under the guidance of Dr. Lori Quinn.
She graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Birla Institute of Technology and Science in Pilani, India, where she worked as a Project Assistant for a year in a neurobiology research laboratory at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research. Working on projects dealing with Parkinson’s disease inclined her research interests towards motor control and movement rehabilitation using non-pharmaceutical, exercise-based methods. She is now a doctoral student at the University of Southern California Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, working with Dr. James Finley on investigating locomotor learning and control in people with Parkinson's Disease and designing effective interventions.
She enjoys dancing, and has been trained in the Indian classical dance form of Odissi.
Sam Landa was an undergraduate student at Columbia University School of General Studies. Prior to studying at Columbia, Sam toured and performed as an acrobat and dancer, specializing in trapeze. Interested in performance at a young age, he studied dance and performed with The Washington Ballet. At 15, he moved to Montreal, completing his academic high school studies while training as an acrobat at the L’Ecole Nationale de Cirque, the leading school for circus arts in North America. Down the road, he hopes to find new ways of integrating the arts and sciences, and to explore how the two fields can support each other’s development.
When not studying or flipping round, he enjoys running, creating visual art, and cooking.
Sam Landa was an undergraduate student at Columbia University School of General Studies. Prior to studying at Columbia, Sam toured and performed as an acrobat and dancer, specializing in trapeze. Interested in performance at a young age, he studied dance and performed with The Washington Ballet. At 15, he moved to Montreal, completing his academic high school studies while training as an acrobat at the L’Ecole Nationale de Cirque, the leading school for circus arts in North America. Down the road, he hopes to find new ways of integrating the arts and sciences, and to explore how the two fields can support each other’s development.
When not studying or flipping round, he enjoys running, creating visual art, and cooking.
Danit Mark was a master’s student in the Movement Sciences program, studying Motor Control and Learning. She has a BS in Exercise Science from Rutgers University. She was very excited to begin her career in the field of neurorehabilitation and work on different projects involving physical activity across a variety of populations.
When Danit was not in class, she served as the Executive Vice President of Peak Potential, which is a volunteer-run non-profit organization that allows children with physical disabilities to rock climb. Assisting those with movement difficulties to exercise and become stronger is what led Danit to her love for the field.
In her spare time, Danit is an avid rock climber and teaches classes in both climbing and technical skills to children and adults of all ages.
Danit Mark was a master’s student in the Movement Sciences program, studying Motor Control and Learning. She has a BS in Exercise Science from Rutgers University. She was very excited to begin her career in the field of neurorehabilitation and work on different projects involving physical activity across a variety of populations.
When Danit was not in class, she served as the Executive Vice President of Peak Potential, which is a volunteer-run non-profit organization that allows children with physical disabilities to rock climb. Assisting those with movement difficulties to exercise and become stronger is what led Danit to her love for the field.
In her spare time, Danit is an avid rock climber and teaches classes in both climbing and technical skills to children and adults of all ages.
Elizabeth is a former clinical Research Assistant at the NRL. She graduated from Barnard College in 2018 with a major in biology and minor in dance. She currently works as a student physcial therapist at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.
When not at work, Elizabeth enjoys working out and coaching classes at her gym.
Elizabeth is a former clinical Research Assistant at the NRL. She graduated from Barnard College in 2018 with a major in biology and minor in dance. She currently works as a student physcial therapist at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.
When not at work, Elizabeth enjoys working out and coaching classes at her gym.
Sophie completed her undergraduate degree at Sarah Lawrence College, where she created her own integrative major that combined studies in neuroscience, movement studies, and child development/psychology. In 2020, she graduated from the Motor Learning and Control program at Teacher’s College with a MA in 2020. She was a Research Assistant at the NRL and loved learning alongside so many inspiring movement scientists! She is passionate about the use of holistic movement interventions for neurological populations. Sophie was involved in the Merengue Dance for Stroke study in collaboration with Columbia University Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, which investigated the use of merengue dance for individuals in the chronic phase of stroke recovery. She is a former ballet dancer, a lifelong yoga student, and a certified Feldenkrais® Practitioner.
In her spare time, Sophie loves hiking, doing the New York Times crossword puzzle, and attending dance and theater performances throughout New York City.
Sophie completed her undergraduate degree at Sarah Lawrence College, where she created her own integrative major that combined studies in neuroscience, movement studies, and child development/psychology. In 2020, she graduated from the Motor Learning and Control program at Teacher’s College with a MA in 2020. She was a Research Assistant at the NRL and loved learning alongside so many inspiring movement scientists! She is passionate about the use of holistic movement interventions for neurological populations. Sophie was involved in the Merengue Dance for Stroke study in collaboration with Columbia University Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, which investigated the use of merengue dance for individuals in the chronic phase of stroke recovery. She is a former ballet dancer, a lifelong yoga student, and a certified Feldenkrais® Practitioner.
In her spare time, Sophie loves hiking, doing the New York Times crossword puzzle, and attending dance and theater performances throughout New York City.
Jamie graduated from Barnard College majoring in Neuroscience & Behavior, and Dance. She joined the NRL as a Research Assistant in the Fall of 2019 and was excited to work on projects that promote enjoyable and sustainable exercise habits in populations who would benefit most.
Jamie graduated from Barnard College majoring in Neuroscience & Behavior, and Dance. She joined the NRL as a Research Assistant in the Fall of 2019 and was excited to work on projects that promote enjoyable and sustainable exercise habits in populations who would benefit most.
Ashrita Satchidanand was a Master's student in the Motor Learning and Control program at Teachers College, Columbia University, where she graduated in 2021. She has a BS in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. She aspires to be a physical therapist that specializes in treating neurological populations.
Ashrita was Involved In:
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Promoting Physical Activity Engagement in Cerebellar Ataxia (Engage-Ataxia)
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Measuring Gaps of Service in Healthcare for people with Parkinson’s Disease (CAMPR)
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Promoting Physical Activity Engagement in Parkinson’s Disease via Telehealth Platform (Engage-PD)
- Priming Motor Function Through Exercise in Cerebellar Ataxia (PRIME-Ataxia)
Ashrita Satchidanand was a Master's student in the Motor Learning and Control program at Teachers College, Columbia University, where she graduated in 2021. She has a BS in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. She aspires to be a physical therapist that specializes in treating neurological populations.
Ashrita was Involved In:
-
Promoting Physical Activity Engagement in Cerebellar Ataxia (Engage-Ataxia)
-
Measuring Gaps of Service in Healthcare for people with Parkinson’s Disease (CAMPR)
-
Promoting Physical Activity Engagement in Parkinson’s Disease via Telehealth Platform (Engage-PD)
- Priming Motor Function Through Exercise in Cerebellar Ataxia (PRIME-Ataxia)
Abigail was an undergraduate Research Assistant at the NRL from Barnard College, where she studied biology and dance. She has previously worked in clinical settings and was excited to join the NRL to explore the research side of rehabilitation. She hopes to pursue a career in physical therapy and research.
Outside of class, she was found performing with Orchesis (Columbia’s largest performing arts group), Barnard’s dance department, and Movement Exchange. Additionally, she was the rehearsal director for the MaMa Project.
Abigail was an undergraduate Research Assistant at the NRL from Barnard College, where she studied biology and dance. She has previously worked in clinical settings and was excited to join the NRL to explore the research side of rehabilitation. She hopes to pursue a career in physical therapy and research.
Outside of class, she was found performing with Orchesis (Columbia’s largest performing arts group), Barnard’s dance department, and Movement Exchange. Additionally, she was the rehearsal director for the MaMa Project.
Dr. Shih was a postdoctoral research fellow in the NRL. Her passion for dance and movement led her to complete her bachelor’s degree program in Physical Therapy from the National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. She pursued and earned her PhD in Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California. She received numerous research grants and awards during her time as a doctoral student, including the Provost’s Fellowship and the Jacquelin Perry Scholarship. Her strong background in physical therapy and biomechanics helped her be successful teaching in both in-person and online formats, and working as a physical therapist with various sports teams.
Dr. Shih’s research aims at the NRL were to further understand musculoskeletal pain, movement disorders, and improve intervention strategies using a multidisciplinary approach. Her dissertation studies focused on trunk control and attentional prioritization during gait in individuals with recurrent low back pain. Dr. Shih actively participated in health for dancers and dance for health research and has researched how dancer’s biomechanics change with skill level, lower extremity injury, and exertion. Her work provided insight into the training and re-training of movement in a broad spectrum of populations.
Outside of academia, she is an avid traveler who has been to more than 35 countries. She loves to dance, enjoys playing music, and is aspiring to become an excellent dog owner one day.
Dr. Shih was a postdoctoral research fellow in the NRL. Her passion for dance and movement led her to complete her bachelor’s degree program in Physical Therapy from the National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. She pursued and earned her PhD in Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California. She received numerous research grants and awards during her time as a doctoral student, including the Provost’s Fellowship and the Jacquelin Perry Scholarship. Her strong background in physical therapy and biomechanics helped her be successful teaching in both in-person and online formats, and working as a physical therapist with various sports teams.
Dr. Shih’s research aims at the NRL were to further understand musculoskeletal pain, movement disorders, and improve intervention strategies using a multidisciplinary approach. Her dissertation studies focused on trunk control and attentional prioritization during gait in individuals with recurrent low back pain. Dr. Shih actively participated in health for dancers and dance for health research and has researched how dancer’s biomechanics change with skill level, lower extremity injury, and exertion. Her work provided insight into the training and re-training of movement in a broad spectrum of populations.
Outside of academia, she is an avid traveler who has been to more than 35 countries. She loves to dance, enjoys playing music, and is aspiring to become an excellent dog owner one day.
Gregory was an Adjunct Instructor in the Biobehavioral Sciences department of Teachers College, Columbia University. He was a Research Assistant in the NRL and the Center for Cerebral Palsy Research at Teachers College, as well as in the Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine at Columbia University Medical Center.
As a professional modern dancer and PMA® Pilates-certified, Gregory toured extensively domestically and internationally. Much of his dance career included working with dance and disability, as a rehearsal director, administrative assistant and dancer with Heidi Latsky Dance, where he now serves on the board of directors. During his time at TC as a first-generation LGBTQ+ Latinx student, he advocated for diversity in STEM and was the President of QueerTC. His passion for science communication is evident in his current role as the social media manager for Know Science, an international education and advocacy organization working to promote knowledge of science and scientific research to the community.
Gregory holds Master's degrees in both motor learning and applied statistics. Much of his research focuses on applying data-driven approaches (e.g., machine learning) to advance healthcare and analytics in the treatment of people with neurological disorders, with a specific interest in precision medicine. He also investigates digital biomarkers using wearables sensors to be incorporated into future clinical trials.
In his free time, he enjoys being an avid foodie, traveling, adventure, and a good cup of coffee.
Gregory was an Adjunct Instructor in the Biobehavioral Sciences department of Teachers College, Columbia University. He was a Research Assistant in the NRL and the Center for Cerebral Palsy Research at Teachers College, as well as in the Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine at Columbia University Medical Center.
As a professional modern dancer and PMA® Pilates-certified, Gregory toured extensively domestically and internationally. Much of his dance career included working with dance and disability, as a rehearsal director, administrative assistant and dancer with Heidi Latsky Dance, where he now serves on the board of directors. During his time at TC as a first-generation LGBTQ+ Latinx student, he advocated for diversity in STEM and was the President of QueerTC. His passion for science communication is evident in his current role as the social media manager for Know Science, an international education and advocacy organization working to promote knowledge of science and scientific research to the community.
Gregory holds Master's degrees in both motor learning and applied statistics. Much of his research focuses on applying data-driven approaches (e.g., machine learning) to advance healthcare and analytics in the treatment of people with neurological disorders, with a specific interest in precision medicine. He also investigates digital biomarkers using wearables sensors to be incorporated into future clinical trials.
In his free time, he enjoys being an avid foodie, traveling, adventure, and a good cup of coffee.
Michele graduated from Barnard College with a bachelor's degree in biology. During her work at NRL, she excelled as a Research Assistant, actively participating in numerous projects such as [PD-Bioemchanics], [PD movers], and [HD Balance].
She was accepted into the prestigious MPH program in health policy and management at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health.
When she's not engrossed in her studies or research, Michele finds joy in experimenting with new recipes, embarking on biking adventures along the scenic Hudson River, and discovering the vibrant cityscape of NYC alongside her friends.
Michele graduated from Barnard College with a bachelor's degree in biology. During her work at NRL, she excelled as a Research Assistant, actively participating in numerous projects such as [PD-Bioemchanics], [PD movers], and [HD Balance].
She was accepted into the prestigious MPH program in health policy and management at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health.
When she's not engrossed in her studies or research, Michele finds joy in experimenting with new recipes, embarking on biking adventures along the scenic Hudson River, and discovering the vibrant cityscape of NYC alongside her friends.
Maya worked as a Research Assistant at the NRL on multiple projects, including [Pre-Active PD] and [HD balance]. Maya pursued a degree in neuroscience & behavior from Barnard College. She had a particular interest in clinical research and had plans to pursue a career in neuropsychology.
Outside of school, Maya was an active member of the Columbia theatre community and Columbia/Barnard Hillel. During her free time, she enjoyed reading in the park, listening to Dolly Parton, and spending quality time with her Standard Poodle, Sarge.
After graduating, Maya left our lab to pursue new opportunities.
Maya worked as a Research Assistant at the NRL on multiple projects, including [Pre-Active PD] and [HD balance]. Maya pursued a degree in neuroscience & behavior from Barnard College. She had a particular interest in clinical research and had plans to pursue a career in neuropsychology.
Outside of school, Maya was an active member of the Columbia theatre community and Columbia/Barnard Hillel. During her free time, she enjoyed reading in the park, listening to Dolly Parton, and spending quality time with her Standard Poodle, Sarge.
After graduating, Maya left our lab to pursue new opportunities.
Kelsey received a master's degree in Motor Learning and Control from TC and her undergraduate degree in Dance and developmental disorders from Ohio State University. Kelsey is a professional dancer and likes to craft. At NRL she worked on multiple projects: Promoting Physical Activity Engagement in Parkinson's Disease via Telehealth Platform (Engage PD), Measuring Gaps of Service in Healthcare for People with Parkinson’s Disease (CAMPR), Pre-Active Parkinson’s Disease (Pre-Active PD), Multi-Disciplinary Study, PRIME-Ataxia, and Engage Ataxia
Kelsey received a master's degree in Motor Learning and Control from TC and her undergraduate degree in Dance and developmental disorders from Ohio State University. Kelsey is a professional dancer and likes to craft. At NRL she worked on multiple projects: Promoting Physical Activity Engagement in Parkinson's Disease via Telehealth Platform (Engage PD), Measuring Gaps of Service in Healthcare for People with Parkinson’s Disease (CAMPR), Pre-Active Parkinson’s Disease (Pre-Active PD), Multi-Disciplinary Study, PRIME-Ataxia, and Engage Ataxia
Maya was a research assistant at the NRL. She is originally from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and earned a bachelor's degree from Barnard College in neuroscience & behavior. She is especially interested in clinical research and plans to pursue a career in neuropsychology.
Maya was an active member of the Columbia theatre community and Columbia/Barnard Hillel. In her free time, Maya loves reading in the park, listening to Dolly Parton, and spending time with her Standard Poodle, Sarge.
Maya was a research assistant at the NRL. She is originally from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and earned a bachelor's degree from Barnard College in neuroscience & behavior. She is especially interested in clinical research and plans to pursue a career in neuropsychology.
Maya was an active member of the Columbia theatre community and Columbia/Barnard Hillel. In her free time, Maya loves reading in the park, listening to Dolly Parton, and spending time with her Standard Poodle, Sarge.