People

Our Team

Active Research Assistants

Henry Weigel, Lab Manager

My name is Henry, and I am the lab manager of the PSYCHE Lab. I am seeking out a PhD in Clinical Psychology, in order to provide care through psychedelic therapy. Seeing the efficacy prove itself time and time again in the field of PAT has driven me to become involved in any way I can. In my free time I love to rock climb and get outside in any way I can.

 

 

 

 

Laura Bonar, Research Assistant

 

 

Tung Vo, Research Assistant

I am an undergraduate research assistant in the PSYCHE Lab. I plan on pursuing medical school and working towards a medical degree to become a psychiatrist. I am participating in this research lab in an attempt to understand the inner workings of psychoactive drugs and their effects on the brain. I aim to research psychoactive drugs for their therapeutic applications and their potential for mental health benefits. I enjoy trying new things and dreaming big.

 

 

 

 

Shayna Shabatura, Research Assistant

Twelve years after graduating from St. Cloud State University with a B.A. in Communication Studies, Shayna enrolled at the University of Denver not to earn a second bachelor’s degree, but to deepen her understanding of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics—particularly the roles of intention, set, setting, and integration. She joined the PSYCHE Lab to gain hands-on experience in the evolving field of psychedelic science. She will begin the MA in Clinical Counseling Psychology program at DU in Fall 2026. In the future, she plans to pursue advanced training in psychedelic science and facilitation, integrating research and clinical practice to support self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change. Outside of campus, Shayna trains in Shotokan Karate, plays with her family, volunteers as a companion in palliative care, and values quiet moments of solitude.

 

Sanjana Acharya, Research Assistant

I am an undergraduate research assistant at the PSYCHE Lab. I am currently earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and plan to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I hope to contribute to research on the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics as a part of this lab. In the future, I aim to conduct research on trauma and its association with the onset and severity of substance use disorders. Additionally, I hope to contribute to research on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. In my free time, I love to hike, rollerblade, ski, and create art.

 

 

Owen Charles, Research Assistant

Tanner Nelson, Research Assistant

Noah Brophy, Research Assistant

Giovani Valladares Giron, Research Assistant

 

Affiliate/Previous Research Assistants

Harrison Tillou, Research Assistant