LUZ HELENA
OSPINA
PhD
Experimental Psychology
About Me
I am currently a Project Director in the Experimental Psychopathology Laboratory at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. I assist in managing a multi-site clinical trial that aims to assess the effects of aerobic exercise on neurocognition and functioning in a schizophrenia population.
I recently completed my Psychiatry Postdoctoral Fellow in the PRISM Psychosis Research Program at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Projects included studying the cognitive heterogeneity of bipolar and psychosis disorders, as well as implementing clinical trials aimed at improving cognition and functional outcome in these same psychiatric populations. Other research interests include affective science and psychophysiology, as well as data science and implementing machine learning algorithms.
Previously, I have worked as a research coordinator for neuropsychiatric and genetic studies focusing on the etiology of autism and schizophrenia. Prior research projects included animal models of behavior (using knockout mouse models), and administering tests on development, motor coordination, anxiety and depression. I also worked in health psychology research focusing on medication adherence in the African-American community. In addition, I have worked as an adjunct lecturer and taught courses such as Introduction to Psychology, Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences, Experimental Psychology, and Physiological Psychology.
Research Experience
October 2017 - Current
Project Director - Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Managing a multi-site clinical trial assessing the effects of aerobic exercise on neurocognition and functioning in a schizophrenic population.
Principal Investigator: Dr. David Kimhy
August 2015 - September 2017
Postdoctoral Fellow - Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Conduct research on the heterogeneity of neurocognition in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Katherine E. Burdick
March 2008 - July 2009
Laboratory Technician - Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Conducted animal-model research on the genetic etiology of autism and related developmental disorders.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Joseph Buxbaum
January 2006 - February 2008
Research Coordinator - Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Assisted in a population genetic study of autism conducted in Central Valley, Costa Rica.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Alison McInnes
November 2002 - August 2003
Research Assistant - Weill Cornell Medical College
Assisted in research targeting medication adherence and cardiovascular risk reduction in minorities.
Principal Investigator: Dr. Gbenga Ogedegbe
Education
February 2015
The Graduate Center, CUNY
PhD
Dissertation Thesis: Physiological and Subjective Aspects of Positive Mood in Relation to Executive Functioning: The Potential Moderating Role of Personality
Advisor: Dr. Deborah J. Walder
August 2012
Brooklyn College, CUNY
MA
Master’s Thesis: The Relationships of Physiological and Subjective Responses to Positive Mood Induction with Aspects of Cognitive Functioning
Advisor: Dr. Deborah J. Walder
May 2004
New York University
BA