The Teen Lab is comprised of individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for leveraging science and communities to promote healthy behaviors and skill development in teens.
Dr. Sam Margherio
Sam Margherio, PhD (she/her) is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Science in the Department of Psychology at Virginia Tech. She completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at Ohio University in 2023 after completing her APA-accredited clinical psychology internship at the Charleston Consortium/Medical University of South Carolina. Prior to pursuing her PhD, Dr. Margherio completed her master's in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in forensics at Sam Houston State University, followed by a research assistantship at the Western Psychiatric Hospital. Dr. Margherio's research in school-based interventions, ADHD, and substance use has received funding from an NIAAA NRSA, the Psi Chi National Honor Society, and the American Psychological Foundation. She received the 2021 CHADD Young Research Scientist Award and has received awards and nominations for her mentorship and teaching.
Dr. Margherio was raised in a small, rural town, lending to her passion for promoting equitable mental health practices in underserved communities. She enjoys spending time with her (massive) family, hiking, kayaking, running, and obsessing over her dog, Pumpkin.
For a complete list of Dr. Margherio's scholarly works, see her ResearchGate profile.
Undergraduate Research Assistants
Olivia Cox
Olivia (she/her) is a junior double marjoring in Psychology and Human Development with a minor in Adaptive Brain and Behavior. After graduation, she would like to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology to better preper her for her future career aspirations. Outside of the lab, Olivia loves to read!
Gabby Finan
Gabby is a sophomore studying for a dual degree in psychology and criminology with a minor in adaptive brain and behavior. She plans to get her master's in either criminal psychology or personality psychology to pursue a job relating to behavioral analysis. Outside of the lab, she enjoys golfing and going to the gym, as wella s reading Greek philosophy.
Madisyn Paris
Madisyn (she/her) is an undergraduate student from Caroline County, VA majoring in Psychology and Early Childhood Development and Education with minors in Adaptive Brain and Behavior and Disabilities Studies. She intends to pursue an Ed.S in School Psychology to become and School Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor. In her free time, Madisyn enjoys reading, singing, and spending time with animals and friends.
Sophia Kelly
Sophia (she/her) is an undergraduate student studying psychology and clinical and behavioral neuroscience at Virginia Tech. She intends to pursue neuropsychology in graduate school, with the goal of obtaining a Ph.D and researching substance use disorders. Before university, Sophia grew up in the suburbs of Boston and Nashville, and now resides near Tampa, Florida. Outside of the lab, she loves spending time with friends, writing, and listening to music.
Interested in joining the team?
Dr. Margherio is recruiting graduate students for Fall 2024. Applications are due December 1st. Select "Apply now" to begin your application.
Undergraduate research assistants are being recruited on a rolling basis. To apply, please send your curriculum vita or resume, a copy of your transcript, and a brief statement of interest to Dr. Margherio at smargherio@vt.edu.