PhD Students
McKinley Pawlak
B.Sc. (Honours) in Neuroscience from the University of Lethbridge
McKinley received their B.Sc. Honours in Neuroscience from the University of Lethbridge. She is interested in how early life mental illness presents itself and risk factors involved. In particular, how early intervention and treatment can alter the course of the illness into adulthood considering the high plasticity of children's brains.
When free they enjoy reading, watching movies, and spending time in nature.
Masters Students
Gia-Huy Hoang
B.Sc in Biochemistry from the University of Vietnam
Huy is a recent Biochemistry grad from Vietnam. During his undergrad studies, he conducted a side project involving EEG research to investigate the effects of mindfulness practice in reducing stress levels among students. This experience ignited his interest in the mental health of young people. Huy is committed to furthering his education with a graduate degree in Neuroscience, where he hopes to apply his computational expertise and acquire new skills in fMRI techniques for studying biomarkers that can predict early onset of anxiety and depression in youth.
Huy is also interested in mindfulness meditation and has practiced Vipassana for 5 years. In his free time, he enjoys reading and writing, engaging in deep conversations, and finding solace in nature.
Athina Spiropoulos
B.Sc (Honours) in Psychology and Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation from the University of Calgary
Athina completed her undergraduate degrees at the University of Calgary in Psychology (Hons.) and Community Rehabilitation and Disability Studies. Athina is currently in a Master of Clinical Psychology and is excited to start working in the CBRAID lab with Dr. Daniel Kopala-Sibley, his team, and all the people who participate in his trials. For the past year, Athina has been involved in psychosocial oncology and homelessness prevention research but is thrilled to be transition into studying how psychosocial and personality factors can predict the onset of internalizing disorders.
Clinically, Athina has experience working with people with Autism, and her passion lies in supporting and empowering adolescents in developing resiliency, self identity, and holistic mental health. In her free time, Athina enjoys hiking, birdwatching, and playing with her new kitten Ana.
