Research Coordinators
Claire Breitenfeldt
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Claire graduated from St. Olaf College with a B.A. in Psychology. She is a Research Coordinator in the MnTiC Lab, working primarily on the NExT and CBIT+TMS studies. She is interested in using imaging and neuromodulation to learn more about neurodevelopmental disorders and work with individuals and families affected by them. Her long-term goal is to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. In her free time she enjoys reading, going for walks, and baking.
Mayella Brinker
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Mayella graduated from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities with a B.S. in Psychology and a Minor in Public Health. She is a Research Coordinator in the lab where she manages websites, social media, and helps with recruitment. And additionally assisting on NExT, TicTech, and other studies. Mayella is especially interested in helping to bridge communication gaps between research and the public. To do so, she hopes to pursue a health communication career in the public health field. Her hobbies include baking, painting, playing team sports, and spending time with friends and family.
IaOom Khang
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
IaOom is a first-generation student of Hmong refugee immigrants. She graduated from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities with a B.A. in Biology, Society, and the Environment with a double minor in Public Health and Developmental Psychology. IaOom is working in the MnTiC Lab as a Research Coordinator, focusing primarily on the TEAL study and assisting with the TReC study. IaOom is interested in combatting stigma regarding mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders amongst underserved BIPOC communities and is interested in learning how to make research more accessible. IaOom's long-term goal is to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Outside of work, her hobbies include traveling, exploring nature, thrifting, and attending music festivals.
Lily Michaud
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Lillian Michaud graduated from Macalester College with a B.A. in Neuroscience as well as minors in Psychology, Biology, and Chemistry. She is a research coordinator in the lab, focusing primarily on the CBIT+TMS study. Lillian is interested in neurological interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders and is passionate about making research a positive experience. Outside of work, her hobbies include reading, cooking, and going for hikes with her dog and friends.
Tabitha Mungai
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Tabitha graduated from The University of Chicago with a B.A. in Neuroscience. In the lab, Tabitha is primarily working on the TReC study and assisting with the TEAL and CBIT+TMS studies as needed. She enjoys learning about research and non-surgical interventions for understanding and treating neurodevelopmental disorders. In her free time, Tabitha can be found playing tennis, hiking, or spending time with friends and family.
Will Simonson
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Will earned his bachelor's degree in Spanish from Luther College, master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from UW-Madison, and doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Boston University. As a research professional, his role includes assisting with the TReC and CBIT+TMS studies. Before joining the lab, Will was an occupational therapist for an outpatient clinic in the Twin Cities. Will is passionate about working with families and children with developmental disabilities. He hopes to use his clinical experience as an occupational therapist to help disseminate research findings and improve access to evidence-based therapies for children and adolescents with tic disorders. During his free time, Will enjoys running, playing basketball, and hanging out with his two adorable bunnies.
Research Assistants
Christopher Johnson
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Christopher is currently studying Computer Science and Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota. He has studied abroad in Korea and Japan. Because of Japan and Korea, many of his dreams came true. After coming home, Christopher now wants to make others' dreams come true like his did abroad. Aside from his new dream, He likes to hang out with friends and family, meet new people, go hiking, and to spend time with his dog Russel.
Students & Volunteers
Anoma Yang
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Anoma Yang is an undergraduate studying Psychology and Social Justice. She currently works as a personal care assistant and hopes to continue providing care as a career and learning about underrepresented identities in healthcare. Volunteering at the MnTiC Lab is an exciting part of her last year at the University of Minnesota. Anoma is looking forward to being a part of a passionate team.
Sammy Murad
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Sammy is a third year undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota studying Psychology and Public Health. He is hoping to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology working in research and being part of an integrated team of professionals providing care to patients. Outside of school and lab Sammy enjoys running, spending time with friends, and playing video games!
Pranita Keenigi
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
My name is Pranita Keenigi. I am studying Psychology on the pre-med track. I hope to become a psychiatrist one day and provide direct care for patients. I’m super excited to volunteer with MnTiC and further my interest in clinical psychology. Outside of school, I work as a speech and debate coach, I’m a dancer, I love watching movies, and shopping!