Lab Director: Dr. Shikha Prashad
I am an Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at the University of Texas at Arlington. I received a B.A. in Biology and Computer Science from Bryn Mawr College and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science from the University of Maryland, College Park under the mentorship of Dr. Jane Clark in the Department of Kinesiology. I completed my postdoctoral training at the University of Texas at Dallas with Dr. Francesca Filbey. I was an Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at Washington State University before joining UTA in Fall 2024.
I spent my childhood moving to cities around the world with my family, and graduated from an international high school in Rome, Italy. I then moved to the United States to attend Bryn Mawr College. My academic training and career have taken me through various parts of the country, including Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington, and Texas. Having lived in nine cities across six countries, it has always been difficult for me to answer the question, “So, where are you from?” without going into a 10-min tirade 😊
Graduate Student
Victoria Rednoske
I am a PhD student in the Department of Kinesiology working with Dr. Prashad. Originally from San Diego, I moved to Washington where I received my BS in Kinesiology from Washington State University. After graduating, I worked as a personal trainer before coming to UTA for graduate school. My research interests include how various disorders affect our implicit motor learning as well as the relationship between motor learning and athletic performance. I love brain anatomy and enjoyed working in a cadaver lab for two years! Outside of school, I love watching sports, weightlifting, and going out to eat!
Undergraduate Students
Aksa Saju
I am an undergraduate student majoring in Exercise Science at the University of Texas at Arlington. Along with Exercise Science, I am also on the pre-med track and hope to continue my education in medical school after completing my undergraduate studies. My passion for medicine stems from a deep interest in human physiology, health, and using medical knowledge to help others improve their overall well-being. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, spending time with friends and family, cooking, and listening to music.
Andrew Brezina
I am an undergraduate student majoring in Exercise Science at the University of Texas at Arlington. After my education here at Arlington I am going to graduate school for Physical Therapy. I am interested in all aspects of health from psychology, nutrition, neurology, and human physiology. In all I am interested in how the human body operates and adapts. I spend my time outside of school with my friends, hiking, biking, and going to the gym.
Marcus Otero
I am an Exercise Science major on the clinical path at UTA, and my career goal is to become a Physical Therapist. I’m originally from Barstow, California, and I also have a Master’s in Science in Accounting from Cal State Uni San Bernadino. I’m planning on continuing in my education after receiving my Bachelors in Exercise Science by pursuing a PhD. I desire to own my own Physical Therapy clinic. I’m also pursuing my Certified Personal Trainer Certification through NASM in my free time. My hobbies include lifting weights, listening to music, spending time with friends, researching muscle hypertrophy, volunteering, and sleeping.
Anna Nguyen
I am an undergraduate student majoring in Exercise Science at the University of Texas at Arlington. Currently, I am applying to physical therapy schools and hope to one day specialize in neurology! Through my experiences in school and shadowing physical therapists, I have developed a strong interest in expanding my knowledge to help individuals regain independence after injuries. I am passionate about learning and continually challenging myself to grow both academically and personally. In my free time, I love lifting weights, going on walks, and doing my nails.
Gloria Mondika
I’m an undergraduate pursuing Biology with a Neuroscience minor here at the UT Arlington. After completing my degree, I plan to pursue an MD/PhD path program in neuroscience, cognitive processes, and technology, with a Ph.D. in Neuroscience with a focus on neuro engineering and AI. Beyond academics, I enjoy working out, creating content for my personal podcast, and exploring natural hair care through my small business. In my free time, I also like cooking Congolese food, reading books, and spending time with friends and family.
This could be you! Come join us!