Julia Leung

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER

1. Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing ? 

This summer I have been given the privilege of working with Dr. Ashley de Marchena. We are exploring the concept of “frank” autism, a “know it when you see it” phenomenon of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). Some patients exhibit very apparent behavioral patterns that allow for an ASD diagnosis within moments. These distinct presentations are known as “frank” ASD, and may have important implications for the future of clinical diagnosis and research. 

2. What do you find fascinating in the research that you’re doing ?

Human consciousness is a world of its own; it transgresses the binary and black-or-white to create an ever-shifting orb that can expand, adapt, emote, and contemplate its own existence. Especially in the realm of social interaction, human behavior can pick up the most subtle implications through gesture, prosody, and facial expressions. In psychology, there is no black and white; there is no quick solution—it is this gray area, this mystique, that urges me to quantify and demystify such a subjective experience. 

3. What skills are you learning through the USURF experience ?

The USURF experience has given me clinical exposure to autism diagnosis. I have the opportunity to observe and analyze administrations of the ADOS (Autism Diagnosis Observation Schedule), the current gold standard of ASD diagnosis. I am also gaining experience with Datavyu, gesture coding, and data analysis. 

4. What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research ?

The large volume of non-digitized data, such as DVD, makes it difficult to gather the necessary video administrations of participants—especially when data is missing. 

5. How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field ?

With my background in pharmacy, this opportunity will allow me to marry the worlds of psychology and pharmacology. In the future, I aspire to create a holistic approach to mental health that addresses neurochemistry, behavioral, and psychosocial factors. The USURF grant will open many doors for me in academia and clinical research.

6. Tell us something interesting about yourself.

In my free time, I love to read voraciously, explore undiscovered music (music is my muse; Spotify Premium is better than sliced bread), and contemplate life.