Team

Dr. Barbara Thompson | Principal Investigator

thom1756@msu.edu

Trained as a behavioral neuroscientist in social, emotional and cognitive development, I integrate clinical research and basic models to study affect in both typical and atypical neurodevelopment in the lab. This is challenging, but the approach embodies translational research at its core. I have extensively studied limbic circuitry and how disruptions alter affective processing, as well as how prenatal disruptions in reward circuitry lead to significant changes in behavior and cellular functions throughout development. My laboratory research program merges these two areas of interest towards exploring the neurobiological underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disorders in which disruptions in both affect and reward can have detrimental effects. My laboratory explores functional disruptions in behavior and attempts to elucidate the underlying neural changes responsible for these disruptions by utilizing a combination of techniques in both basic science and clinical research. As basic science and clinical findings continue to reveal the heterogeneity of the genetic underpinnings and behavioral symptoms in neurodevelopmental disorders, we are hopeful that our multidisciplinary approaches to science will allow for the design of individualized interventions for those with neurodevelopmental disorders.

College of Human Medicine, Department of Pediatrics & Human Development

ResearchGate

Alexandra Carbayo | Volunteer

I am currently a third year MD student at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Previously, I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Biopsychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. After graduating, I completed a post-baccalaureate program in Pre-Professional Health at California State University, East Bay. I worked as a behavioral technician for young kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder for several years while in school. I am interested in Neurology as well as Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. I found Dr. Thompson's lab while working on my scholarly project which is aimed at learning how to minimize anxiety for kids with ASD while going to regular doctor's office visits.

Abbi Behmlander | Volunteer

My name is Abbi Behmlander. I am a second-year MD student at Michigan State University (MSU) College of Human Medicine (CHM). I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Saginaw Valley State University.  I worked as a medical assistant for more than four years at MyMichigan Health - Campus Ridge Family Practice in Midland, MI. I then completed the Advanced Baccalaureate Learning Experience at MSU CHM before starting medical school.  My professional interests include psychology, addiction medicine, neurology, and serving rural and vulnerable populations. For these reasons, I felt moved to join the SEND Lab and contribute to the team. Outside of school, I enjoy camping, kayaking, hiking, and spending time with family, friends, and my cat.

Eneka Lamb | Volunteer

My name is Eneka Lamb and I'm currently a second year MD student at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Through the past decade, I've paved a path towards a career in medicine as a physician committed to serving marginalized and vulnerable communities. As an undergraduate student at Duke University, I designed a major called Global Perspectives of Maternal and Child Health, where I took a biopsychosocial approach to exploring health aspects of women and children internationally. After earning a BS degree, I served as a Peace Corps Volunteer for 3.5 years in Guyana, where I worked with community members, primarily around topics related to women's health, contraceptive methods, adolescent pregnancy, cervical cancer, stigmas, and indigenous rights, as well as labor and delivery. Upon returning to the United States in 2018, I completed a MS degree in Physiology from Georgetown University. Vulnerable populations, stigmas and pregnancy continue to be among my main interests, which is why I felt compelled to join the SEND Lab and contribute this innovative and dedicated team.

Bailey Braum | Volunteer

I am a current second year medical student at Michigan State College of Human Medicine interested in pursuing a career in addiction medicine and street medicine. I received a Bachelor's in Public Health with a minor in Biology from Wayne State University in Detroit. I am passionate about underserved communities and in particular, persons experiencing homelessness. I hope to bring more comprehensive women's health initiatives into the world of street medicine during my physician career. I look forward to blending two of my passions, addiction medicine and women's health, during my time with the SEND Lab. 

Brieanna McFarren | Volunteer

My name is Brieanna McFarren. I am a Junior at Michigan State, majoring in human biology. My career goal is to become a pediatrician! I enjoy biking, kayaking, reading, and spending time with my dog.

Mckenzie Kempa | Volunteer

My name is Kenzie Kempa and I am a Sophomore at the University of Michigan. I am majoring in Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience with the goal of eventually practicing as a Pediatrician or Ob/Gyn. I was a nanny in high school and I love working with kids of all ages. I  am passionate about improving our understanding of the brain as well as bettering the lives of children and their families.The SEND lab perfectly combines my love of working with kids, neuroscience, and research. I am looking forward to learning everything I can about the world of research, contributing to a greater scientific understanding, and working with a passionate team. In my free time I enjoy reading, traveling, weightlifting, and embroidery.

Joseph Overway | Volunteer

I am a third year pre-med student at Grand Valley State University. I am majoring in Biomedical Science and Psychology. I look forward to growing in my understanding of research here at the SEND lab. I also hope to learn more about child development, and that this experience will enable me to be a better doctor to children someday.