We apply developmental psychology, clinical trials, and emerging technologies such as virtual reality, fNIRS and large national datasets to prevent and rehabilitate pediatric injuries.
Our interdisciplinary program bridges developmental psychology, computer science, and neuroscience to reduce the burden of childhood injury and improve outcomes for neurodivergent youth.
Our prevention research spans roadway safety to caregiver education, using technology-assisted approaches that include augmented reality for implicit bias training. It aims to reduce injury incidence in children and adolescents, with particular attention to youth with autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
Using HCUP NEDS, MEPS, and other national databases, we examine injury risk, healthcare utilization, and economic burden among neurodivergent youth, including children with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD. Dr. Shen co-directs the Center for Neurodiversity Education, Support and Training (NEST), which anchors this research within a broader university-wide commitment to the autism and neurodivergent community.
We develop and rigorously test VR-based cognitive rehabilitation programs for children with traumatic brain injury, targeting executive function deficits through randomized controlled trials and fNIRS neuroimaging.
A cross-section of the lab's work, spanning founding studies, current trials, and the students and collaborators driving them forward.
A collaborative, interdisciplinary team committed to rigorous science and mentoring the next generation of researchers. Hover a card for their current focus, or click to open their full bio.
A rigorous, supportive environment with real opportunities to lead projects, publish, and present at national conferences.
Hands-on experience with VR development, fNIRS neuroimaging, randomized controlled trials, and national database analysis in R.
Collaborate with partners at NIH and universities nationwide across psychology, computer science, and medicine.
Literature reviews, family interviews, data analysis, manuscript writing, conference presentations: students build a real range of skills, working across psychology, nursing, public health, engineering, and beyond.
We consider applications on a rolling basis. Many undergraduates join through Research Service Learning (PSYC 4880) for course credit, PhD students are admitted through the UMass Lowell Psychology PhD program, and research assistantships and honours thesis positions are also available.
Read recent publications to understand our research agenda.
Email Dr. Shen with your CV and a brief statement of research interests.
PhD applicants: Apply through the UML Psychology PhD program, listing Dr. Shen as your preferred advisor.
Interested in participating in our research studies? Learn more and sign up →