Our Team
Lab Director
Dr. Cheri A. Levinson, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Professor, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Department of Pediatrics
Clinical Psychology Ph.D.: Washington University, Department of Psychology
T32 Post-doctoral Fellowship: Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Clinical Internship: University of North Carolina, Department of Psychiatry
Center for Excellence in Eating Disorders (CEED)
Dr. Cheri Levinson is a Professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Louisville and Director of the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) lab, which is based in Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Department of Pediatrics, division of child and adolescent psychiatry. She is also the Founder and Clinical Director of the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders, which is the only eating disorder specialty clinic in the state of KY, where she treats patients, and supervises and trains other clinicians and students in evidence-based treatments for eating disorders. Currently Dr. Levinson is Vice Chair of the KY Eating Disorder Council, which is a state sponsored council charged with improving eating disorder treatment and access to treatment in KY.
Dr. Levinson’s research focuses on building new treatments for eating disorders, primarily using new technologies. To do this work she uses advanced analytics and technologies, such as individual network analysis, ecological momentary assessment, and wearable sensor technologies. Dr. Levinson has published more than 130 peer-reviewed manuscripts and chapters and has been the primary investigator on several national grants and awards, including three active clinical trials testing exposure therapy and personalized treatments for eating disorders. She has received several awards for her work including the 2021 Association for Psychological Science Rising Star Award, 2020 American Psychological Association Theo Blau Award, and the Academy for Eating Disorders 2015 Outstanding Scientific Contribution Award.
Dr. Levinson’s clinical works focuses on the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children with eating disorders. She specializes in the treatment of comorbid disorders (eating disorders, OCD and anxiety disorders) using empirically supported cognitive-behavioral techniques. Dr. Levinson has worked in all levels of eating disorder care, including outpatient, partial-hospitalization, residential, and inpatient care.
Before moving home to Louisville, Dr. Levinson trained at the University of North Carolina Center of Excellence in Eating Disorders (CEED). While at CEED, she trained in cognitive behavioral therapies, dialectical behavior therapy, family based therapy for adolescents with anorexia nervosa, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness therapies for eating disorders. Dr. Levinson was a post-doctoral fellow at the Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry, where she developed technology based treatments for eating disorders. She completed her clinical internship at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. She received her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in the psychology department at Washington University in St. Louis. She completed her undergraduate degree in psychology and history at the University of Kentucky.
To see Dr. Levinson's CV, please click here: levinson_cv_2025.3.19.docx
Representative Publications:
Professor, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Department of Pediatrics
Clinical Psychology Ph.D.: Washington University, Department of Psychology
T32 Post-doctoral Fellowship: Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Clinical Internship: University of North Carolina, Department of Psychiatry
Center for Excellence in Eating Disorders (CEED)
Dr. Cheri Levinson is a Professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Louisville and Director of the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) lab, which is based in Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Department of Pediatrics, division of child and adolescent psychiatry. She is also the Founder and Clinical Director of the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders, which is the only eating disorder specialty clinic in the state of KY, where she treats patients, and supervises and trains other clinicians and students in evidence-based treatments for eating disorders. Currently Dr. Levinson is Vice Chair of the KY Eating Disorder Council, which is a state sponsored council charged with improving eating disorder treatment and access to treatment in KY.
Dr. Levinson’s research focuses on building new treatments for eating disorders, primarily using new technologies. To do this work she uses advanced analytics and technologies, such as individual network analysis, ecological momentary assessment, and wearable sensor technologies. Dr. Levinson has published more than 130 peer-reviewed manuscripts and chapters and has been the primary investigator on several national grants and awards, including three active clinical trials testing exposure therapy and personalized treatments for eating disorders. She has received several awards for her work including the 2021 Association for Psychological Science Rising Star Award, 2020 American Psychological Association Theo Blau Award, and the Academy for Eating Disorders 2015 Outstanding Scientific Contribution Award.
Dr. Levinson’s clinical works focuses on the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children with eating disorders. She specializes in the treatment of comorbid disorders (eating disorders, OCD and anxiety disorders) using empirically supported cognitive-behavioral techniques. Dr. Levinson has worked in all levels of eating disorder care, including outpatient, partial-hospitalization, residential, and inpatient care.
Before moving home to Louisville, Dr. Levinson trained at the University of North Carolina Center of Excellence in Eating Disorders (CEED). While at CEED, she trained in cognitive behavioral therapies, dialectical behavior therapy, family based therapy for adolescents with anorexia nervosa, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness therapies for eating disorders. Dr. Levinson was a post-doctoral fellow at the Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry, where she developed technology based treatments for eating disorders. She completed her clinical internship at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. She received her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in the psychology department at Washington University in St. Louis. She completed her undergraduate degree in psychology and history at the University of Kentucky.
To see Dr. Levinson's CV, please click here: levinson_cv_2025.3.19.docx
Representative Publications:
- Levinson, C.A., *Cusack, C., *Hunt, R.A., *Fitterman-Harris, H.F., Ralph-Nearman, C.*Hooper, S. (in press). The Future of the Eating Disorder Field: Inclusive, Aware of Systems, and Personalized. Behaviour Research and Therapy.
- Levinson, C.A., *Kapadia, A., *Sandoval-Araujo, L., Vanzhula, I.A., Machry, K. (in press).
Movement Toward Dimensional Models of Comorbid Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and
Eating Disorders. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology. - Levinson, C. A., +Fitterman-Harris, H. F., Patterson, S., Harrop, E., Turner, C., May, M., Steinberg, D., Muhlheim, L., Millner, R., Trujillo-ChiVacuan, E., Averyt, J., Peebles, R., Rosenbluth, S., & Becker, C. B. (2023). The Unintentional Harms of Weight Management Treatment: Time for a Change. The Behavior Therapist, 46, 7.
- Levinson, C.A., *Williams, B. M., *Christian, C., *Hunt, R.A., *Keshishian, A.C., *Brosof, L.C., *Vanzhula, I.A., *Davis, G.D., *Brown, M.L., *Bridges-Curry, Z., **Sandoval-Araujo, L.E., & +Ralph-Nearman, C. (2023). Personalizing eating disorder treatment using idiographic models: An open series trial. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 91(1), 14-28.
- Levinson, C.A., **Trombley, C.M., *Brosof, L.C., *Williams, B.M., & *Hunt, R.A. (2022). Binge eating, purging, and restriction symptoms: Increasing accuracy of prediction using machine learning. Behavior Therapy.
- Levinson, C.A., *Hunt, R.A., *Cusack, C.E., & +Ralph-Nearman, C. (2022). Shifting from treatments developed based on averages to treatments based on the individual: Eating disorders research can move the field of clinical psychology forward. The Clinical Psychologist, 75(2).
- Levinson, C.A., *Cusack, C., *Brown, M., & Smith, A.R. (2022). A network approach can improve eating disorder conceptualization and treatment. Nature Reviews Psychology, 1, 419-430.
- Levinson, C.A., *Hunt, R.A., *Christian, C., *Keshishian, A.C., *Williams, B.M., *Vanzhula, I.A., & +Ralph-Nearman, C. (2022). Longitudinal group and individual networks of eating disorder symptoms in individuals diagnosed with an eating disorder. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 131(1), 58-72.
- Levinson, C.A., *Hunt, R.A., *Keshishian, A.C., *Brown, M.L., *Vanzhula, I. A., *Christian, C., *Brosof, L. C., *Williams, B. M. (2021). Using individual networks to identify treatment targets for eating disorder treatment: a proof-of-concept study and initial data. Journal of Eating Disorder, 9, 147.
- Levinson, C.A., **Spoor, S., *Keshishian, A., & Pruitt, A. (2021). Pilot outcomes from a multidisciplinary telehealth vs in-person intensive outpatient program for eating disorders during vs before the Covid-19 pandemic. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 54(9), 1672-1679.
Faculty
Dr. Irina Vanzhula, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Assistant Research Professor, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
Presidential Research Scholar, Louisville Center for Clinical and Translational Research Center
Clinical Psychology Ph.D., University of Louisville
Predoctoral Internship, University of Chicago School of Medicine
Postdoctoral Fellowship, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Dr. Vanzhula is an Assistant Research Professor in the EAT Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville and a licensed psychologist. She graduated with her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the University of Louisville. She was the recipient of the Guy Stevenson Award for Excellence in Graduate Studies and the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) Scholar Award. Dr. Vanzhula completed her predoctoral internship at the University of Chicago School of Medicine and a 2-year postdoctoral fellowship at the Eating Disorders Program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Prior to returning to the EAT Lab, Dr. Vanzhula worked as an Assistant Research Professor at the Center for the Advancement of Research on Eating Behaviors (CARE Lab) at the University of Kansas. Dr. Vanzhula has been appointed as a Presidential Research Scholar with the Louisville Center for Clinical and Translational Research Center.
Dr. Vanzhula’s research focuses on improving treatments for individuals with eating disorders by leveraging technology and cutting-edge methodology. Specifically, Dr. Vanzhula’s projects aim to 1) Develop adjunct interventions (such as meal support) that fill the gaps in existing treatment, 2) Adapt effective treatments for other comorbid conditions to the treatment of EDs (such as exposure and response prevention, mindfulness), and 3) Use novel statistical methodology (such as network analysis and machine learning) to identify personalized treatment targets.
In her free time, Dr. Vanzhula enjoys playing tennis, salsa dancing, and hiking with her dog Ragnar.
To contact Dr. Vanzhula, email [email protected]
Representative Publications:
Assistant Research Professor, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences
Presidential Research Scholar, Louisville Center for Clinical and Translational Research Center
Clinical Psychology Ph.D., University of Louisville
Predoctoral Internship, University of Chicago School of Medicine
Postdoctoral Fellowship, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Dr. Vanzhula is an Assistant Research Professor in the EAT Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville and a licensed psychologist. She graduated with her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the University of Louisville. She was the recipient of the Guy Stevenson Award for Excellence in Graduate Studies and the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) Scholar Award. Dr. Vanzhula completed her predoctoral internship at the University of Chicago School of Medicine and a 2-year postdoctoral fellowship at the Eating Disorders Program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Prior to returning to the EAT Lab, Dr. Vanzhula worked as an Assistant Research Professor at the Center for the Advancement of Research on Eating Behaviors (CARE Lab) at the University of Kansas. Dr. Vanzhula has been appointed as a Presidential Research Scholar with the Louisville Center for Clinical and Translational Research Center.
Dr. Vanzhula’s research focuses on improving treatments for individuals with eating disorders by leveraging technology and cutting-edge methodology. Specifically, Dr. Vanzhula’s projects aim to 1) Develop adjunct interventions (such as meal support) that fill the gaps in existing treatment, 2) Adapt effective treatments for other comorbid conditions to the treatment of EDs (such as exposure and response prevention, mindfulness), and 3) Use novel statistical methodology (such as network analysis and machine learning) to identify personalized treatment targets.
In her free time, Dr. Vanzhula enjoys playing tennis, salsa dancing, and hiking with her dog Ragnar.
To contact Dr. Vanzhula, email [email protected]
Representative Publications:
- Vanzhula, I.A., Hagan, K. Duck, S.A., Pan, I., Wang, E.Y., Steinglass, J., Attia, E., Wildes, J.E., Guarda, A.S., Schreyer, C. (2024, Advanced Online Publication). Eating Disorder Symptom Non-Endorsers in Hospitalized Patients with Anorexia Nervosa: Who Are They? European Eating Disorder Review. https://doi.org/10.1002/erv.3087
- Vanzhula, I.A., Wang, E., Martinelli, M.K., Schreyer, C.C., & Guarda, A.S. (2023, Advanced Online Publication). Inpatient Hospital Course and Self-Reported Symptomatology of Underweight Adults with ARFID Compared to Age- and Sex-matched Controls with Anorexia Nervosa. Journal of Eating Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-023-00912-x
- Vanzhula, I. A., Spoor, S. P., Ernst, S. E., Cusack, C. E., Farrell, N. R., Nuñez, M., Essayli, J. H., & Levinson, C. A. (2023). Evaluating the psychometric properties of the Fear of Food Measure in adolescents across three independent samples. Psychological assessment, 35(9), 751–762. https://doi.org/10.1037/pas0001260
- Vanzhula, I.A., Duck, S.A., Pletch, A., Guarda, A., & Schreyer, C. (2023). Greater dietary variety is associated with lower food anxiety at discharge from intensive eating disorder treatment. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 56(7): 1365-1377. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-023-00912-x
- Vanzhula, I. A., Kinkel-Ram, S., & Levinson, C. A. (2021). Perfectionism and difficulty controlling thoughts bridge eating disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder: A network analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 283: 302-309. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-023-00912-x
- Vanzhula, I.A., Sala, M., Christian, C., Hunt, R.A., Keshishian, A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S., Spoor, S., & Levinson, C. A. (2020). Avoidance coping during mealtimes predicts an increase in eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 53(4):625-630. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.23254
- Vanzhula, I.A. & Levinson, C.A. (2020). Mindfulness in the treatment of eating disorders: Theoretical rationale and hypothesized mechanisms of action. Mindfulness, 11:1090–1104. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-020-01343-4
- Vanzhula, I.A., Calebs, B., Fewell, L., & Levinson, C.A. (2018). Irritability and concentration difficulties are illness pathways between eating disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms: Understanding comorbidity with network analysis. European Eating Disorder Review, 27(2), 147-160. https://doi.org/10.1002/erv.2634
Dr. Nicholas C. Peiper, Ph.D., MPH (He/Him)
Dr. Nicholas Peiper is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology & Population Health at the University of Louisville (UofL) and Principal Scientist in the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Lab based in UofL’s Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences. He is also the Chair of the Research Subcommittee for the Kentucky Eating Disorder Council, which is a state sponsored council dedicated to improving eating disorder interventions in Kentucky. His current work focuses on investigating the epidemiology and population burden of eating disorders as well as implementing scalable digital mental health interventions (DMHI).
Prior to joining the EAT Lab in November 2023, Dr. Peiper was Director of Research at Meru Health, where he directed an interdisciplinary team of scientists and served as Principal Investigator (PI) of a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded study to investigate the real-world effectiveness of a therapist-supported DMHI in primary care. Dr. Peiper previously worked at the Pacific Institute for Research & Evaluation and RTI International where he was PI and Project Director of numerous behavioral health intervention studies sponsored by the NIH, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), and Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA).
Dr. Nicholas Peiper is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology & Population Health at the University of Louisville (UofL) and Principal Scientist in the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Lab based in UofL’s Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences. He is also the Chair of the Research Subcommittee for the Kentucky Eating Disorder Council, which is a state sponsored council dedicated to improving eating disorder interventions in Kentucky. His current work focuses on investigating the epidemiology and population burden of eating disorders as well as implementing scalable digital mental health interventions (DMHI).
Prior to joining the EAT Lab in November 2023, Dr. Peiper was Director of Research at Meru Health, where he directed an interdisciplinary team of scientists and served as Principal Investigator (PI) of a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded study to investigate the real-world effectiveness of a therapist-supported DMHI in primary care. Dr. Peiper previously worked at the Pacific Institute for Research & Evaluation and RTI International where he was PI and Project Director of numerous behavioral health intervention studies sponsored by the NIH, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), and Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA).
Post-Doctoral Fellows
Rachel Torres, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Dr. Rachel Torres is a recent graduate of the Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience at the University of Louisville and has joined the EAT/REDS labs as a postdoctoral researcher. Her research focus is autonomic nervous system measurement, analysis, regulation and resilience, and she has been working with people with spinal cord injuries for the past six years. NASA funded her doctoral research due to the interesting fact that people with spinal cord injuries and space crews have similar autonomic nervous systems, and researchers from both these fields learn from each other. “I am most interested in the paradox of thoughts themselves and how they affect our nervous systems: they are at once meaningless, like stomach rumblings, not even close to who we really are (sorry Descartes) and extremely powerful, as when my research participants measurably change their nervous systems just by thinking of something that bothers them.” She is excited to apply her knowledge to a new population, people with eating disorders. “I am fascinated by building machine learning models to create individualized treatment options incorporating autonomic measurement. I am looking so forward to working at the EATS/REDS labs!” In her spare time Rachel enjoys hanging out with her family, any and all plants, and finding ugly furniture and making it beautiful.
Dr. Rachel Torres is a recent graduate of the Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience at the University of Louisville and has joined the EAT/REDS labs as a postdoctoral researcher. Her research focus is autonomic nervous system measurement, analysis, regulation and resilience, and she has been working with people with spinal cord injuries for the past six years. NASA funded her doctoral research due to the interesting fact that people with spinal cord injuries and space crews have similar autonomic nervous systems, and researchers from both these fields learn from each other. “I am most interested in the paradox of thoughts themselves and how they affect our nervous systems: they are at once meaningless, like stomach rumblings, not even close to who we really are (sorry Descartes) and extremely powerful, as when my research participants measurably change their nervous systems just by thinking of something that bothers them.” She is excited to apply her knowledge to a new population, people with eating disorders. “I am fascinated by building machine learning models to create individualized treatment options incorporating autonomic measurement. I am looking so forward to working at the EATS/REDS labs!” In her spare time Rachel enjoys hanging out with her family, any and all plants, and finding ugly furniture and making it beautiful.
Amara Tanweer, Psy.D. (She/Her)
Amara Tanweer is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the EAT Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville. Amara completed her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at Adler University and has experience working with individuals in different settings including college counseling, private practice, residential facilities, and community mental health. Her areas of focus encompass body image, eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, attachment, and identity. She is passionate about her clinical work with clients as well as teaching and mentoring students. In her free time, Amara loves crafting, watching anime, reading fiction books, and spending time with her cats and huskies.
Amara Tanweer is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the EAT Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville. Amara completed her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at Adler University and has experience working with individuals in different settings including college counseling, private practice, residential facilities, and community mental health. Her areas of focus encompass body image, eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, attachment, and identity. She is passionate about her clinical work with clients as well as teaching and mentoring students. In her free time, Amara loves crafting, watching anime, reading fiction books, and spending time with her cats and huskies.
Aubrey Hoffer, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Dr. Hoffer is a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the EAT lab. She earned her Ph.D. in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University. Dr. Hoffer's research focuses on understanding the cognitive processes that underlie body image development. In particular, she is interested in developing new theories about body image. In her free time, Dr. Hoffer enjoys fighting, spending time with her husband Josh and dog Butters, playing video games, and reading.
Dr. Hoffer is a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the EAT lab. She earned her Ph.D. in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University. Dr. Hoffer's research focuses on understanding the cognitive processes that underlie body image development. In particular, she is interested in developing new theories about body image. In her free time, Dr. Hoffer enjoys fighting, spending time with her husband Josh and dog Butters, playing video games, and reading.
Amy K. Jordan, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Amy Jordan joined the EAT Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in July 2024. She completed her predoctoral internship at Geisinger Medical Center and pursued her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Bowling Green State University. Amy’s research focuses on sociocultural influences of body image and eating behavior, such as body talk and parental body attitudes. She is especially interested in how positive constructs like body appreciation may mitigate or protect against body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. Eventually, she hopes to explore how these adaptive outcomes can be cultivated throughout childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. When not engaged in research or clinical work, Amy enjoys lattes, hiking, running, and quality time with her two huskies.
Amy Jordan joined the EAT Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in July 2024. She completed her predoctoral internship at Geisinger Medical Center and pursued her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Bowling Green State University. Amy’s research focuses on sociocultural influences of body image and eating behavior, such as body talk and parental body attitudes. She is especially interested in how positive constructs like body appreciation may mitigate or protect against body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. Eventually, she hopes to explore how these adaptive outcomes can be cultivated throughout childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. When not engaged in research or clinical work, Amy enjoys lattes, hiking, running, and quality time with her two huskies.
Juan Hernández, Ph.D. (He/Him)
Dr. Hernández is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the EAT lab. He earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Arizona State University and completed his pre-doctoral internship at Penn Medicine. He is interested in the integration of body image and cardiometabolic health treatments to promote longevity among diverse individuals across the lifespan and body size spectrum. Dr. Hernández works from several guiding frameworks, including Health at Every Size and Fit-for-Purpose models, and pays special attention to foundational principles such as exposure-based learning and bioenergetics when integrating concepts from different fields. He hopes his research will advance interdisciplinary treatment alternatives for those seeking ethical and size-affirming healthcare. In his free time, he enjoys live music, sports, and spending time with friends.
Dr. Hernández is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the EAT lab. He earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Arizona State University and completed his pre-doctoral internship at Penn Medicine. He is interested in the integration of body image and cardiometabolic health treatments to promote longevity among diverse individuals across the lifespan and body size spectrum. Dr. Hernández works from several guiding frameworks, including Health at Every Size and Fit-for-Purpose models, and pays special attention to foundational principles such as exposure-based learning and bioenergetics when integrating concepts from different fields. He hopes his research will advance interdisciplinary treatment alternatives for those seeking ethical and size-affirming healthcare. In his free time, he enjoys live music, sports, and spending time with friends.
Lauren Harris, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Dr. Lauren Harris is a postdoctoral research fellow assisting on a collaborative R01 grant spearheaded by Drs. Cheri Levinson and April Smith which explores the physiological, behavioral, and psychological mechanisms linking Anorexia Nervosa/Atypical Anorexia Nervosa, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts. Lauren completed her undergraduate studies at Dartmouth College in 2016 and received her Ph.D. from Florida State University’s clinical psychology program in 2024. Her program of research centers on understanding and disrupting the causal processes underlying life-threatening behaviors, including disordered eating and suicide.
Dr. Lauren Harris is a postdoctoral research fellow assisting on a collaborative R01 grant spearheaded by Drs. Cheri Levinson and April Smith which explores the physiological, behavioral, and psychological mechanisms linking Anorexia Nervosa/Atypical Anorexia Nervosa, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts. Lauren completed her undergraduate studies at Dartmouth College in 2016 and received her Ph.D. from Florida State University’s clinical psychology program in 2024. Her program of research centers on understanding and disrupting the causal processes underlying life-threatening behaviors, including disordered eating and suicide.
Kimberly Osborn, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Kimberly Osborn joined the EAT lab as a postdoctoral fellow in August 2025. She earned her PhD in Counseling Psychology at Oklahoma State University and completed her predoctoral internship at Duke University Medical Center. Broadly, her professional interests lie in the scientific study of the creation and implementation of high-quality, holistic care for individuals with severe mental health concerns in communities that have historically experienced significant difficulty accessing evidence-based treatment. She is particularly interested in the relationship between traumatic stress and eating disorders. Kimberly has worked clinically with individuals of all ages with various types of eating disorders. In her free time, she likes to run and watch scary movies with her partner and their dog, Juju.
Kimberly Osborn joined the EAT lab as a postdoctoral fellow in August 2025. She earned her PhD in Counseling Psychology at Oklahoma State University and completed her predoctoral internship at Duke University Medical Center. Broadly, her professional interests lie in the scientific study of the creation and implementation of high-quality, holistic care for individuals with severe mental health concerns in communities that have historically experienced significant difficulty accessing evidence-based treatment. She is particularly interested in the relationship between traumatic stress and eating disorders. Kimberly has worked clinically with individuals of all ages with various types of eating disorders. In her free time, she likes to run and watch scary movies with her partner and their dog, Juju.
Graduate Students
Rowan Hunt, M.S. (She/They)
Rowan Hunt (B.A. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, M.S. University of Louisville) is a graduate student in the EAT lab. Rowan's research interests include the shared affective mechanisms underlying eating disordered behaviors and other impulsive behaviors, and how such shared mechanisms can be targeted through treatment. Additionally, she is also interested in trajectories of illness in EDs (e.g., predictors of recovery, remission, and relapse). In her free time, Rowan enjoys cooking, seeing live music, and trying her hand at ceramics.
Representative Publications:
Rowan Hunt (B.A. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, M.S. University of Louisville) is a graduate student in the EAT lab. Rowan's research interests include the shared affective mechanisms underlying eating disordered behaviors and other impulsive behaviors, and how such shared mechanisms can be targeted through treatment. Additionally, she is also interested in trajectories of illness in EDs (e.g., predictors of recovery, remission, and relapse). In her free time, Rowan enjoys cooking, seeing live music, and trying her hand at ceramics.
Representative Publications:
- Hunt, R.A., Levinson, C.A., & Peiper, N.C. (2020, in press). Leveraging general risk surveillance to reduce suicide in early adolescents: Associations between suicidality, disordered eating, and other developmental risk factors. Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior.
- Vanzhula, I.A., Sala, M., Christian, C., Hunt, R.A., Keshishian, A.C., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., & Levinson, C.A. (2020). Avoidance coping during mealtimes predicts an increase in eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 53(4), 625-630. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.23254 Christian, C., Williams, B. M., Hunt, R.A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., Vanzhula I.A., Tregarthen J.P., Forbush, K.T., & Levinson, C.A. (2020, in press). A network investigation of core symptoms and pathways across duration of illness using a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral model of eating disorder symptoms. Psychological Medicine, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291719003817
Claire Cusack, M.S. (They/She)
Claire Cusack (M.S. University of Louisville; B.A. Agnes Scott College) is a fifth-year graduate student in the EAT Lab. Claire is interested in exploring maintenance symptoms of eating disorders and comorbidities. They are particularly interested in utilizing idiographic statistical methods and incorporating physiological data to understand the heterogeneity of eating disorder symptoms and to inform tailored treatments. In their free time, Claire enjoys trail running, reading novels, and playing board games.
cecusack.github.io/ClaireCusack/
Claire Cusack (M.S. University of Louisville; B.A. Agnes Scott College) is a fifth-year graduate student in the EAT Lab. Claire is interested in exploring maintenance symptoms of eating disorders and comorbidities. They are particularly interested in utilizing idiographic statistical methods and incorporating physiological data to understand the heterogeneity of eating disorder symptoms and to inform tailored treatments. In their free time, Claire enjoys trail running, reading novels, and playing board games.
cecusack.github.io/ClaireCusack/
Loie Faulkner, M.S. (She/Her)
Loie Faulkner (she/her) is a fourth-year doctoral student in the clinical psychology program at the University of Louisville. Originally from Ithaca, NY, Loie graduated from American University in Washington, DC before completing a postbaccalaureate training program at the National Institutes of Health. Loie is primarily interested in the intersection of anxiety and eating behavior, and is particularly focused on anxiety, parent psychopathology, and interoception as predictors of disordered eating.
Loie Faulkner (she/her) is a fourth-year doctoral student in the clinical psychology program at the University of Louisville. Originally from Ithaca, NY, Loie graduated from American University in Washington, DC before completing a postbaccalaureate training program at the National Institutes of Health. Loie is primarily interested in the intersection of anxiety and eating behavior, and is particularly focused on anxiety, parent psychopathology, and interoception as predictors of disordered eating.
Luis Sandoval-Araujo, B.A. (He/Him)
Luis Sandoval-Araujo (B.A. Florida International University) is a third-year doctoral student in the EAT Lab and former study coordinator for the Predicting Recovery study. Prior to joining the EAT Lab, Luis worked on a number of projects at the FIU Center for Children and Families. Luis is interested in better understanding the relationship between anxiety and eating disorders, particularly looking at how anxiety contributes to eating disorder development. Additionally, he is interested in using computational methods to inform understanding of eating disorder development, diagnosis, and prognosis. Outside the lab, Luis enjoys playing music (mostly sad songs on guitar), building computers, and spending quality time with friends.
Representative Publications:
Luis Sandoval-Araujo (B.A. Florida International University) is a third-year doctoral student in the EAT Lab and former study coordinator for the Predicting Recovery study. Prior to joining the EAT Lab, Luis worked on a number of projects at the FIU Center for Children and Families. Luis is interested in better understanding the relationship between anxiety and eating disorders, particularly looking at how anxiety contributes to eating disorder development. Additionally, he is interested in using computational methods to inform understanding of eating disorder development, diagnosis, and prognosis. Outside the lab, Luis enjoys playing music (mostly sad songs on guitar), building computers, and spending quality time with friends.
Representative Publications:
- Sandoval-Araujo, L.E., Cusack, C.E., Ralph-Nearman, C., Glatt, S., Han, Y., Bryan, J., Hooper, M.A., Karem, A., & Levinson, C.A. (2024). Differentiation between atypical anorexia nervosa and anorexia nervosa using machine learning. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 57(4), 937-950. doi: 10.1002/eat.24160
- Cusack, C.E., Vanzhula, I., Sandoval-Araujo, L.E., Pennesi, J., Kelley, S., & Levinson, C.A. (2024). Are central eating disorder network symptoms sensitive to item selection and sample? Implications for conceptualization of eating disorder psychopathology from a network perspective. Journal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science, 133(1), 48-60. doi: 10.1037/abn0000865
- Ralph-Nearman, C., Sandoval-Araujo, L.E., Karem, A., Cusack, C.E., Glatt, S., Hooper, M.A., Rodriguez Pena, C., Allen, S., Cash, E.D., Welch, K.C., & Levinson, C.A. (2023). Using machine learning with passive wearable sensors to pilot the detection of eating disorder behaviors in everyday life. Psychological Medicine. doi: 10.1017/S003329172300288X
Savannah Hooper, B.A. (She/Her)
Savannah Hooper (B.A. Trinity University) is a third-year graduate student in the EAT lab. Savannah has a variety of interests in the eating disorder research field but is particularly interested in research identifying ways to tailor eating disorder treatments for individuals and different age demographics. She is also interested in studying weight stigma as a risk factor for disordered eating and in studying interventions for shared risk factors of disordered eating and co-morbid disorders. In her free time, Savannah enjoys hiking with friends (especially now that she escaped the Texas heat), reading fiction books, attending concerts, and Face Timing her niece and nephew.
Savannah Hooper (B.A. Trinity University) is a third-year graduate student in the EAT lab. Savannah has a variety of interests in the eating disorder research field but is particularly interested in research identifying ways to tailor eating disorder treatments for individuals and different age demographics. She is also interested in studying weight stigma as a risk factor for disordered eating and in studying interventions for shared risk factors of disordered eating and co-morbid disorders. In her free time, Savannah enjoys hiking with friends (especially now that she escaped the Texas heat), reading fiction books, attending concerts, and Face Timing her niece and nephew.
Avantika Kapadia, M.S. (She/Her)
Avantika Kapadia is a third-year doctoral student in the EAT Lab, at the University of Louisville. Avantika received her Bachelors and Master's degrees in Psychology, from India and then went onto work at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in India, where she developed an interest in eating disorders and OCD. Avantika's research interests primarily focus on identifying shared mechanisms contributing to the comorbidity of eating disorders, OCD and anxiety with the aim of improving treatment outcome and recovery. She is also interested in developing and adapting virtual exposure-based interventions for underserved populations with eating disorders, in order to make treatment more accessible for these groups. In her free time, Avantika loves swimming, reading novels, baking and anything to do with cats.
Avantika Kapadia is a third-year doctoral student in the EAT Lab, at the University of Louisville. Avantika received her Bachelors and Master's degrees in Psychology, from India and then went onto work at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in India, where she developed an interest in eating disorders and OCD. Avantika's research interests primarily focus on identifying shared mechanisms contributing to the comorbidity of eating disorders, OCD and anxiety with the aim of improving treatment outcome and recovery. She is also interested in developing and adapting virtual exposure-based interventions for underserved populations with eating disorders, in order to make treatment more accessible for these groups. In her free time, Avantika loves swimming, reading novels, baking and anything to do with cats.
Zoe Hynes, B.A. (She/Her)
Zoe Hynes (B.A. University of Rochester) is a second-year doctoral student in the EAT Lab. Zoe has experience in various research topics, including communication in romantic relationships and mother-infant attachment styles, but her true interest lies in eating disorders. She is highly passionate about promoting equity within eating disorders and research regarding personalized treatment. Additionally, she is interested in weight stigma and how it intersects with eating disorders. In her free time, Zoe enjoys listening to music, singing and playing guitar, and spending time outdoors.
Zoe Hynes (B.A. University of Rochester) is a second-year doctoral student in the EAT Lab. Zoe has experience in various research topics, including communication in romantic relationships and mother-infant attachment styles, but her true interest lies in eating disorders. She is highly passionate about promoting equity within eating disorders and research regarding personalized treatment. Additionally, she is interested in weight stigma and how it intersects with eating disorders. In her free time, Zoe enjoys listening to music, singing and playing guitar, and spending time outdoors.
Zoë Hopewell, M.S. (She/Her)
Zoë Hopewell (she/her) is a second-year MD-PhD student at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She graduated from Tulane University with dual degrees, earning a B.S. in Neuroscience and a B.A. in Dance, both awarded cum laude. She then went on to earn her MSc in Integrative Neuroscience with distinction from the University of Edinburgh, where her project focused on the role of the gut-brain axis in the development of Parkinson’s Disease. In her free time, she loves to read, knit and crochet, and see live music.
Zoë Hopewell (she/her) is a second-year MD-PhD student at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She graduated from Tulane University with dual degrees, earning a B.S. in Neuroscience and a B.A. in Dance, both awarded cum laude. She then went on to earn her MSc in Integrative Neuroscience with distinction from the University of Edinburgh, where her project focused on the role of the gut-brain axis in the development of Parkinson’s Disease. In her free time, she loves to read, knit and crochet, and see live music.
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Sara Buseman, B.A.
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Study Coordinators
Kefan "Cathy" Wu, B.A. (She/Her)
Kefan "Cathy" Wu (B.A. University of Michigan) is the lead study coordinator in the EAT Lab and works on the NIMH funded Tracking Restriction, Affect, and Cognitions (TRAC) Study. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with high honors from the University of Michigan, majoring in Psychology and minoring in English. At the University of Michigan, Cathy worked under Dr. Christopher Monk to study early childhood adversity impacts on adolescent and young adult brain development. She is particularly passionate about understanding the development of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, as well as advancing just-in-time and personalized interventions for suicide and related comorbidities. Cathy hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys painting, cooking, and speeding time with family, friends and her dog, Udon.
Kefan "Cathy" Wu (B.A. University of Michigan) is the lead study coordinator in the EAT Lab and works on the NIMH funded Tracking Restriction, Affect, and Cognitions (TRAC) Study. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with high honors from the University of Michigan, majoring in Psychology and minoring in English. At the University of Michigan, Cathy worked under Dr. Christopher Monk to study early childhood adversity impacts on adolescent and young adult brain development. She is particularly passionate about understanding the development of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, as well as advancing just-in-time and personalized interventions for suicide and related comorbidities. Cathy hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys painting, cooking, and speeding time with family, friends and her dog, Udon.
Morgan Johnson, M.S. (She/Her)
Morgan Johnson (B.A. Wilkes University, M.S. Rochester Institute of Technology) is the lead study coordinator in the EAT Lab and works on the GLP-1 Misuse and Self-Guided HOPE studies. Morgan graduated Magna Cum Laude from Wilkes University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. In 2024, she earned a Master of Science in Experimental Psychology from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). While at RIT, she worked under Dr. Lindsay Schenkel to complete her master’s thesis project, in which she examined the relationship between eating disorder symptoms, theory of mind, and alexithymia in undergraduate students. She has research training in other areas of clinical psychology such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, but her passion lies within eating disorders and social cognition. She aims to earn a Ph.D. to continue her work in these areas. In her free time, Morgan enjoys reading books, creative writing, and spending time with her partner and their dog, Gracie.
Morgan Johnson (B.A. Wilkes University, M.S. Rochester Institute of Technology) is the lead study coordinator in the EAT Lab and works on the GLP-1 Misuse and Self-Guided HOPE studies. Morgan graduated Magna Cum Laude from Wilkes University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. In 2024, she earned a Master of Science in Experimental Psychology from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). While at RIT, she worked under Dr. Lindsay Schenkel to complete her master’s thesis project, in which she examined the relationship between eating disorder symptoms, theory of mind, and alexithymia in undergraduate students. She has research training in other areas of clinical psychology such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, but her passion lies within eating disorders and social cognition. She aims to earn a Ph.D. to continue her work in these areas. In her free time, Morgan enjoys reading books, creative writing, and spending time with her partner and their dog, Gracie.
Thu Nguyen, B.S. (She/Her)
Thu Nguyen (B.S. Knox College) is a study coordinator for the NIH-funded Youth Eating Study. She graduated with a double major in Psychology and Educational Studies. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree, Thu worked under Dr. Sara O’Brien studying OCD, OCRDs, and transdiagnostic risk factors. She also worked with Dr. Meredith Bucher studying the dimensional assessments for maladaptive personalities. Thu is primarily interested in the development of psychopathology and eating disorders in children and adolescents, the roles of personalities, parenting, and parent psychopathology in eating behaviors, and cultural factors in diagnosis and treatment development. Thu plans to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, exercise, watching Youtube and dancing.
Thu Nguyen (B.S. Knox College) is a study coordinator for the NIH-funded Youth Eating Study. She graduated with a double major in Psychology and Educational Studies. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree, Thu worked under Dr. Sara O’Brien studying OCD, OCRDs, and transdiagnostic risk factors. She also worked with Dr. Meredith Bucher studying the dimensional assessments for maladaptive personalities. Thu is primarily interested in the development of psychopathology and eating disorders in children and adolescents, the roles of personalities, parenting, and parent psychopathology in eating behaviors, and cultural factors in diagnosis and treatment development. Thu plans to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, exercise, watching Youtube and dancing.
Anna Jane Anderson, B.S. (She/Her)
Anna Jane Anderson (B.S. Trinity University) is a study coordinator for the NIH-funded Youth Eating Study. She graduated with honors from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas with a double major in Psychology and Religion in 2024. While at Trinity, she was a research assistant under Dr. Carolyn Becker, researching and developing manualized single-session interventions on behavioral activation, problem solving, and exposure, and investigated medical weight-stigma and its effects. She is passionate about childhood and adolescent mental health and early interventions. Anna Jane hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking her dog, and finding new brunch spots.
Anna Jane Anderson (B.S. Trinity University) is a study coordinator for the NIH-funded Youth Eating Study. She graduated with honors from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas with a double major in Psychology and Religion in 2024. While at Trinity, she was a research assistant under Dr. Carolyn Becker, researching and developing manualized single-session interventions on behavioral activation, problem solving, and exposure, and investigated medical weight-stigma and its effects. She is passionate about childhood and adolescent mental health and early interventions. Anna Jane hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking her dog, and finding new brunch spots.
Maggie Tillquist, B.S. (She/Her)
Maggie Tillquist (B.S. Davidson College) is a study coordinator for the Body Project and the NIMH-funded Facing Eating Disorder Fears study. Maggie graduated with honors from Davidson with a double major in Psychology and Communication Studies. At Davidson, she completed a senior thesis under Dr. Catherine Bagwell, investigating how similarities in eating habits and body image predicted friendship satisfaction between pairs of friends. In the future, Maggie plans to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Outside of the lab, Maggie enjoys running, cuddling with her dog, Bernie, and baking.
Maggie Tillquist (B.S. Davidson College) is a study coordinator for the Body Project and the NIMH-funded Facing Eating Disorder Fears study. Maggie graduated with honors from Davidson with a double major in Psychology and Communication Studies. At Davidson, she completed a senior thesis under Dr. Catherine Bagwell, investigating how similarities in eating habits and body image predicted friendship satisfaction between pairs of friends. In the future, Maggie plans to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Outside of the lab, Maggie enjoys running, cuddling with her dog, Bernie, and baking.
Jaelin Isquith, B.A. (She/Her)
Jaelin Isquith (B.A., University of Nevada, Las Vegas) is a study coordinator for the PIONEER study. During her time at UNLV, she volunteered as a research assistant in a lab focused on childhood trauma, along with a lab focused on infants and children's perceptual abilities. After graduating with her B.A. In psychology, Jaelin worked as a study coordinator for a study in Dr. Kara Christensen Pacella's lab examining eating behaviors in college students experiencing food insecurity. Jaelin also worked as a neurofeedback technician for three years at a private therapy practice in Las Vegas. Jaelin is interested in understanding how pubertal timing contributes to the development and maintenance of eating disorders through emerging adulthood. Some of Jaelin's other hobbies include reading, musical theatre, and reality tv.
Jaelin Isquith (B.A., University of Nevada, Las Vegas) is a study coordinator for the PIONEER study. During her time at UNLV, she volunteered as a research assistant in a lab focused on childhood trauma, along with a lab focused on infants and children's perceptual abilities. After graduating with her B.A. In psychology, Jaelin worked as a study coordinator for a study in Dr. Kara Christensen Pacella's lab examining eating behaviors in college students experiencing food insecurity. Jaelin also worked as a neurofeedback technician for three years at a private therapy practice in Las Vegas. Jaelin is interested in understanding how pubertal timing contributes to the development and maintenance of eating disorders through emerging adulthood. Some of Jaelin's other hobbies include reading, musical theatre, and reality tv.
Annis Byram, B.S. (She/Her)
Annis Byram (B.S., University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) is a study coordinator for the Jesse Wright and eBITE study. She graduated with distinction in Psychology with a concentration in Clinical/Community Psychology. During her undergraduate studies, Annis worked under Dr. Catharine Fairbairn in the Alcohol Research Lab, where she served as the undergraduate lab manager. In this role, she researched the social effects of alcohol between strangers using EEG methods. Annis’s research interests include psychopharmacology, addiction, mood disorders, and network analysis. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting, working out, crocheting, and painting.
Annis Byram (B.S., University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) is a study coordinator for the Jesse Wright and eBITE study. She graduated with distinction in Psychology with a concentration in Clinical/Community Psychology. During her undergraduate studies, Annis worked under Dr. Catharine Fairbairn in the Alcohol Research Lab, where she served as the undergraduate lab manager. In this role, she researched the social effects of alcohol between strangers using EEG methods. Annis’s research interests include psychopharmacology, addiction, mood disorders, and network analysis. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting, working out, crocheting, and painting.
Data Managers
Jayson Stancil, M.S. (He/Him)
Senior Data Manager
Jayson Stancil is the Senior Manager–Data Analyst (Senior Data Manager) at the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Laboratory at the University of Louisville. He holds a Master of Science in Quantitative Psychology from Ball State University and a Bachelor's degree from Bellarmine University. In his role, Jayson leads data management and analysis projects, overseeing data pipelines, cleaning processes, and reporting for large-scale research initiatives funded by external stakeholders. He supervises a team of data managers, providing leadership in data governance, stewardship, quality control, and reporting. Jayson designs, manages, and analyzes complex datasets to produce actionable insights, develops data dictionaries and standardized reporting protocols to ensure data integrity, and applies statistical analysis methods to uncover patterns and predictive indicators within behavioral datasets. He also leads cross-functional collaborations to translate complex findings into strategic recommendations, oversees quality assurance processes to ensure compliance with project requirements, and presents analytical results to support strategic planning and intervention development. Outside of work, Jayson enjoys powerlifting, woodworking, and spending time with his pets, Bobby and Lizzie.
Senior Data Manager
Jayson Stancil is the Senior Manager–Data Analyst (Senior Data Manager) at the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Laboratory at the University of Louisville. He holds a Master of Science in Quantitative Psychology from Ball State University and a Bachelor's degree from Bellarmine University. In his role, Jayson leads data management and analysis projects, overseeing data pipelines, cleaning processes, and reporting for large-scale research initiatives funded by external stakeholders. He supervises a team of data managers, providing leadership in data governance, stewardship, quality control, and reporting. Jayson designs, manages, and analyzes complex datasets to produce actionable insights, develops data dictionaries and standardized reporting protocols to ensure data integrity, and applies statistical analysis methods to uncover patterns and predictive indicators within behavioral datasets. He also leads cross-functional collaborations to translate complex findings into strategic recommendations, oversees quality assurance processes to ensure compliance with project requirements, and presents analytical results to support strategic planning and intervention development. Outside of work, Jayson enjoys powerlifting, woodworking, and spending time with his pets, Bobby and Lizzie.
Apsara Pitigalaarachchi, M.S. (She/Her)
Apsara Pitigalaarachchi is a first-year graduate student as of Fall 2023 in the Doctor of Philosophy in Biostatistics program at the University of Louisville. Apsara received her Bachelor of Science (Special) Degree with Honors from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka where she majored in Statistics and she received her Master in Biostatistics from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music and spending time with her family.
Apsara Pitigalaarachchi is a first-year graduate student as of Fall 2023 in the Doctor of Philosophy in Biostatistics program at the University of Louisville. Apsara received her Bachelor of Science (Special) Degree with Honors from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka where she majored in Statistics and she received her Master in Biostatistics from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music and spending time with her family.
Executive Assistant
Christina Barragan (She/Her)
Christina Barragan is the Executive Assistant to Dr. Cheri Levinson. She has worked with Dr. Levinson for a few years and is a huge supporter of all her great achievements. She is so happy to be able to support all the wonderful work everyone in the Eat Lab does daily. Outside of work she married with a step-daughter and a puppy dog. She loves to watch movies and spend any vacation time at Disney World.
Christina Barragan is the Executive Assistant to Dr. Cheri Levinson. She has worked with Dr. Levinson for a few years and is a huge supporter of all her great achievements. She is so happy to be able to support all the wonderful work everyone in the Eat Lab does daily. Outside of work she married with a step-daughter and a puppy dog. She loves to watch movies and spend any vacation time at Disney World.
Grants Manager
Sally Phan (She/Her)
Sally is a Research Grants Coordinator for the EAT Lab. She studied Physiology and Medical Sciences during her undergraduate career. She assists the lab with proposal submissions and financial management of the grants the receive after they are awarded. Sally's background in physiology gives her an appreciation for all the wonderful research being done in the lab. When she's not working, you can find her reading, exploring the city, baking or spending time with family and friends.
Sally is a Research Grants Coordinator for the EAT Lab. She studied Physiology and Medical Sciences during her undergraduate career. She assists the lab with proposal submissions and financial management of the grants the receive after they are awarded. Sally's background in physiology gives her an appreciation for all the wonderful research being done in the lab. When she's not working, you can find her reading, exploring the city, baking or spending time with family and friends.
EAT Lab Summer Interns
Sydney Goldberg (She/Her)
Sydney is a junior at Cornell University pursuing a major in Human Development and a minor in Data Science. She is interested in psychopathology research, specifically relating to eating disorders and the statistical methods used to study them. In her free time, Sydney teaches indoor cycling classes and loves spending time with her friends, creating Spotify playlists, and petting dogs.
Sydney is a junior at Cornell University pursuing a major in Human Development and a minor in Data Science. She is interested in psychopathology research, specifically relating to eating disorders and the statistical methods used to study them. In her free time, Sydney teaches indoor cycling classes and loves spending time with her friends, creating Spotify playlists, and petting dogs.
Vindhya Srikanth (She/Her)
Vindhya is a summer intern for the EAT lab this summer. She is also a clinical research coordinator for the Early Psychosis Research Center (EPICENTER) at the Ohio State University. In this position, she works on the Psychosis Risk Outcomes Network (ProNET) project), examining factors that may predict psychosis for people at clinical high risk. She graduated from the University of Virginia in 2023 with a B.A. in Psychology and French and a minor in Public Policy and Leadership. In the fall of 2025, she will begin pursuit of her PhD in counseling psychology at Marquette University under the mentorship of Dr. Rawan Atari-Khan. Her primary research and clinical interests involve specific risk and resilience factors for eating disorders faced by South Asian populations and how familial relationships can impact eating behaviors and body surveillance. Outside of research, Vindhya is very involved in community theatre and you can find her on stage playing Pilar in the Legally Blonde Musical this summer!
Vindhya is a summer intern for the EAT lab this summer. She is also a clinical research coordinator for the Early Psychosis Research Center (EPICENTER) at the Ohio State University. In this position, she works on the Psychosis Risk Outcomes Network (ProNET) project), examining factors that may predict psychosis for people at clinical high risk. She graduated from the University of Virginia in 2023 with a B.A. in Psychology and French and a minor in Public Policy and Leadership. In the fall of 2025, she will begin pursuit of her PhD in counseling psychology at Marquette University under the mentorship of Dr. Rawan Atari-Khan. Her primary research and clinical interests involve specific risk and resilience factors for eating disorders faced by South Asian populations and how familial relationships can impact eating behaviors and body surveillance. Outside of research, Vindhya is very involved in community theatre and you can find her on stage playing Pilar in the Legally Blonde Musical this summer!
Grace Williams (She/Her)
Grace Williams (she/her) is an undergraduate studying mathematics, computer science, and data science at Harvey Mudd College. She has a passion for technical and quantitative problems solving and communicating solutions in understandable ways. In her free time, she enjoys piano, meditation, yoga, reading classic literature, crosswords, and jigsaw puzzles.
Grace Williams (she/her) is an undergraduate studying mathematics, computer science, and data science at Harvey Mudd College. She has a passion for technical and quantitative problems solving and communicating solutions in understandable ways. In her free time, she enjoys piano, meditation, yoga, reading classic literature, crosswords, and jigsaw puzzles.
UofL Undergraduate Research Assistants
Ava Cunningham (She/Her)
Ava is a senior at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology. She’s passionate about eating disorder recovery and is interested in counseling psychology and cognitive-behavioral approaches to treatment. As a research assistant in the EAT Lab, she’s excited to contribute to work that aligns closely with her values. Outside of school, Ava enjoys weightlifting, reading, and thrifting. She also cares deeply about promoting a more positive, body-respectful approach to fitness.
Ava is a senior at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology. She’s passionate about eating disorder recovery and is interested in counseling psychology and cognitive-behavioral approaches to treatment. As a research assistant in the EAT Lab, she’s excited to contribute to work that aligns closely with her values. Outside of school, Ava enjoys weightlifting, reading, and thrifting. She also cares deeply about promoting a more positive, body-respectful approach to fitness.
Pragya Wason (She/Her)
Pragya is a Sophomore at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology on the pre-med track. She also works part-time at UofL Health as a Mental Health Technician. As an aspiring psychiatrist, Pragya is passionate about contributing to clinical-based research in the psychology field. In her free time, Pragya loves to sing opera, hang out with friends, and listen to all types of music.
Pragya is a Sophomore at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology on the pre-med track. She also works part-time at UofL Health as a Mental Health Technician. As an aspiring psychiatrist, Pragya is passionate about contributing to clinical-based research in the psychology field. In her free time, Pragya loves to sing opera, hang out with friends, and listen to all types of music.
Ichiro Matoba
Ichiro is a junior at University of Louisville pursuing the premed track with a biology major and a chemistry minor. He is a part of the TRAC study, working on managing and organizing the participant’s data. He wishes to graduate this year and take a gap year to go to Japan to gain a new perspective in healthcare. In his free time, Ichiro loves listening/playing music, watching YouTube, and doing activities with his friends.
Ichiro is a junior at University of Louisville pursuing the premed track with a biology major and a chemistry minor. He is a part of the TRAC study, working on managing and organizing the participant’s data. He wishes to graduate this year and take a gap year to go to Japan to gain a new perspective in healthcare. In his free time, Ichiro loves listening/playing music, watching YouTube, and doing activities with his friends.
Flynn H. Harris (Any/All)
Flynn is a Junior at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology. They graduated with dual high school and associate's degrees from the Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University, where they worked under Dr. Teeters in the TECH Lab, focusing on marijuana usage intervention and the intersection of self-harm and substance use. Now they are working with the EAT Lab to follow another research passion of theirs, eating disorders. Their current research interests include the relationships between substance use, suicide, and eating disorders, especially among queer and neurodiverse populations. Outside of the lab they enjoy martial arts, cooking/baking, and story telling of all types.
Flynn is a Junior at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology. They graduated with dual high school and associate's degrees from the Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University, where they worked under Dr. Teeters in the TECH Lab, focusing on marijuana usage intervention and the intersection of self-harm and substance use. Now they are working with the EAT Lab to follow another research passion of theirs, eating disorders. Their current research interests include the relationships between substance use, suicide, and eating disorders, especially among queer and neurodiverse populations. Outside of the lab they enjoy martial arts, cooking/baking, and story telling of all types.
EAT Lab Volunteers
Rachael Mishkind (She/Her)
Rachael is a research volunteer with the EAT lab. She graduated from New York University in 2024 with a major in Psychology, a minor in Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, and a minor in Fine Arts. She spent 5 years working as an EMT and developed a passion for helping patients with severe mental illness. During undergrad, she took an intensive course on eating disorders which inspired her to continue her learning at the EAT lab. In the future, she would like to attend graduate school in the field of clinical psychology. Outside of the lab, she enjoys photography, drawing, and listening to music.
Rachael is a research volunteer with the EAT lab. She graduated from New York University in 2024 with a major in Psychology, a minor in Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, and a minor in Fine Arts. She spent 5 years working as an EMT and developed a passion for helping patients with severe mental illness. During undergrad, she took an intensive course on eating disorders which inspired her to continue her learning at the EAT lab. In the future, she would like to attend graduate school in the field of clinical psychology. Outside of the lab, she enjoys photography, drawing, and listening to music.
Marianne Rouleau-Tang (She/Her)
Marianne is a research volunteer at the EAT Lab. She is a master’s student at the University of Toronto, where she conducts research on the associations between nutrition knowledge and disordered eating. Her undergraduate independent research project explored the roles of friendships in eating disorder recovery.
Marianne is a research volunteer at the EAT Lab. She is a master’s student at the University of Toronto, where she conducts research on the associations between nutrition knowledge and disordered eating. Her undergraduate independent research project explored the roles of friendships in eating disorder recovery.
