LAB MEMBERS AND COLLABORATORS

Dr. Zina Trost

Dr. Trost is a clinical health psychologist and new associate professor in the TAMU Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, where she leads an innovative research program focusing on adapting virtual reality and gaming technologies to address pain and rehabilitation. Her work also addresses the role of injustice appraisal in pain and health outcomes, and its intersection with health disparities. Dr. Trost earned her Bachelor's degree from Fordham University in New York City and her PhD in Clinical Health Psychology in 2010 from Ohio University. She completed her internship at University of Washington, and her postdoctoral work in pain research at McGill University. Her work has received national and international research support, including funding from the American Pain Society, International Association for the Study of Pain, National Institutes of Health, Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, and Department of Defense. Dr. Trost is mom to toddler Misha and baby Luca, as well as a very enthusiastic dog, Leo, who collectively keep her very busy.

Clinical Trial Coordinators

Ami Lisenbee

Ami is a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, where she earned a B.A. in Psychology. She joined the Futures Lab in the spring of 2025. Currently, she is co-leading all DoD-funded studies related to spinal cord injuries (SCI) as well as research on knee pain. In addition, she assists with grant management, lab expenditures, and mentoring current students.

Mathew Avendaño

Mathew is a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned a B.S. in Psychology. He joined the Futures Lab in the summer of 2025. Currently, Mathew is co-leading all studies related to SCI (spinal cord injury) and knee pain. Additionally, he manages the day-to-day operations of the lab, mentors undergraduate research assistants, and coordinates research efforts with external institutions. Mathew plans to further his education by pursuing a PhD in Social Psychology. His research interests focus on the intersection of close relationships, religion, and existential psychology.

Current Lab Members

Misha Shah

Misha is a senior Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience major from Austin, Texas. She joined the Futures Lab in the Fall of 2023, driven by her interest in the intersection of neuroscience and physical therapy, particularly in the study of pain. After graduating from Texas A&M University, she plans to further her education by pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

Emma Tillery

Emma is a senior majoring in Behavioral & Cognitive Neuroscience. Emma has passions for research, and plans to continue her education through applying to Clinical Psychology PhD programs. Emma is the lead student on all CLBP related studies, and assists in student mentoring and study management.

Rachel Smet

Rachel is a senior at Texas A&M University majoring in Psychology, with minors in Sociology and Pre-Medicine, as well as a Certificate in Applied Behavioral Health. She joined the Futures Lab in Spring 2025 due to her passion for psychology and its connection with physical health. Rachel plans to pursue a Doctorate in Psychology with a focus on child welfare.

Lydia Kang

Lydia is an honors second-year Psychology major from Houston, Texas. Motivated by a desire to investigate futuristic non-pharmacological treatments for neurological conditions that utilize advancing technological methods, she joined the Futures Lab in the Summer of 2025. Following her graduation, she aims to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with a specialization in neuropsychology. When not occupied with either studying or volunteering, Lydia loves to read, write stories, and listen to various genres of music, all over a hot cup of coffee.

Sriram Koneru

Sriram is a sophomore at Texas A&M University, majoring in Business on a pre-medicine track. Sriram joined the lab in the Fall of 2024, and after graduating, Sriram plans to attend medical school to get his medical degree.

Jackson Gutierrez

Jackson is a senior at Texas A&M University, majoring in Psychology. He joined the Futures Lab in Summer 2024. After graduating, Jackson plans to pursue a PhD in Counseling or Clinical Psychology with a focus on trauma rehabilitation. His research interests include resilience, first responder trauma, and the psychological factors that support recovery.

Eric Bocciardi

Eric is a senior psychology major from The Woodlands, TX. He joined the Futures Lab in the Summer of 2025. Eric's interest lies in working with individuals who are suffering with PTSD, addictions, suicide, and depression. After graduating, he plans to continue his education seeking either a doctoral degree or masters in psychology/counseling.

Elle Gillespie

Elle is a sophomore at Texas A&M University in the Business Honors program with minors in dance and neuroscience. She joined the Futures Lab in Fall 2025 because of her passion for medicine, rehabilitation, and the psychology of pain. Elle plans to pursue a career in healthcare.

Past Lab Members

Berit Zuch

Berit is a senior at Texas A&M University, majoring in Neuroscience with a focus on the Behavioral and Cognitive track. Berit plans to pursue a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Texas Woman’s University and is deeply passionate about advancing social justice in healthcare.

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