Shuting Zheng, Ph.D., BCBA, is a developmental scientist and board-certified behavior analyst with expertise in assessment and behavioral treatment for children and youth with autism spectrum disorder.
Dr. Shuting Zheng is an Assistant Professor whose research focuses on understanding the diverse developmental experiences of autistic individuals to improve personalized care. Her work examines how individual factors—including biological sex, cognitive and language abilities, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background—influence the assessment of autism and related challenges. She also studies the individual and environmental factors that promote psychological well-being and positive outcomes, with the goal of developing more equitable and effective interventions.
Anusha Sharma, B.S. is a clinical psychology researcher whose interests include emotion regulation, developmental disorders, and mental health interventions for youth and young adults. She earned her B.S. in Psychology and Neuroscience, with a minor in Education, from Trinity University. Her current work focuses on autism research, examining emotional regulation and behavioral patterns in neurodivergent populations. Anusha has also conducted research on personality, affective processes, and ecological momentary assessment and plans to pursue a Master of Social Work to advance inclusive, evidence-based mental health care.
China is dedicated to understanding and improving mental health for autistic individuals. Together with the Zheng Lab, she aims to develop effective strategies for measuring mental health related outcomes in autistic individuals to better evaluate interventions and development, with a particular emphasis on integrating strengths-based and community-based participatory approaches into her research.
Lydia Salbilla is a Clinical Research Associate in the Zheng Lab. Her research focuses on the neurodevelopment and social-emotional experiences of children and adolescents, especially those with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Lydia received her B.A in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin, where she started in the Zheng Lab as an undergraduate research assistant. Lydia is interested in pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Outside of work, she volunteers as a CASA/GAL in Travis County & enjoys running & baking!
Isabella Reiser, B.A. is a Research Engineering Scientist Associate whose work focuses on pediatric behavioral health research, including study coordination, REDCap development, regulatory support, and participant engagement. She earned her B.A. in Psychology, with minors in Criminology and German, from the University of Miami. Her research interests include pediatric psychology, autism, implementation science, and improving research infrastructure to advance evidence-based clinical care. She plans to pursue graduate training in psychology to further support innovative, family-centered mental health research!
Jenni earned her B.S in psychology from Texas State University in 2025 and currently works as a Research Assistant in the lab. Her research interests include autism intervention, particularly the development of accessible, evidence-based supports that promote emotional regulation and functional outcomes for autistic youth. She is especially interested in culturally responsive and technology-informed approaches that expand access for underrepresented and underserved communities. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in a related field and hopes to study abroad to explore cross-cultural approaches to technology-based behavioral interventions.
Adriana Desalos graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She is a Clinical Research Associate in the Zheng Lab. She hopes to attend medical school in the future to continue her work with children. She is passionate about closing the gap in mental health accessibility, particularly for underserved communities, and is committed to building a career that bridges rigorous research with equitable, compassionate clinical care. Outside of work, Adriana enjoys baking and exploring the Austin food scene.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTS
Natalie is an undergraduate at UT Austin pursuing a B.S. in Kinesiology and Exercise Science. Her research interests include autism, late diagnosis, and its relation to other psychopathology. She is also interested in sleep and physical activity in relation to autism.
Marli Golden is an undergraduate at The University of Texas at Austin pursuing a BSA in Biology. Her research interests focus on exploring neurodivergence and how it influences learning, social behavior, and interpersonal relationships, and she hopes to pursue a career in healthcare where she can work directly with and advocate for individuals with special needs.
Shreya is an undergraduate at The University of Texas at Austin pursuing a B.S. in Public Health Honors. Her research interests include autism, child development, environmental exposures, and mental health outcomes in children. She hopes to pursue a career in medicine where she can combine clinical care, research, and advocacy for children and families.
Lucianna Gonzalez is an undergraduate at The University of Texas at Austin pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. Her research interests focus on neurodiversity, health equity, and improving healthcare experiences for individuals with developmental and neurological conditions. She is particularly interested in understanding how public health approaches can promote earlier identification, reduce healthcare disparities, and support individuals across their lifespan.
Ashlynn is an undergraduate at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology. Her research focuses on understanding neurodivergence and its impact on learning and social interactions. She hopes to pursue a career in healthcare where she can provide compassionate care while advocating and providing support for individuals with special needs.