Undergraduate Research Assistants

Caroline Burnett joined as an undergraduate kinesiology student (class of 2024) pursuing OT school. Caroline's research interest is adults and children with autism. She is currently working on a research project on how to better characterize motor impairments in autism spectrum disorder using novel robotic assessments of bilateral coordination and visuospatial abilities. In her free time, Caroline enjoys bouldering, dancing, and carrying out her duties as the president of the pre-OT club.

Samantha Timanus joins the lab as a computer science undergraduate. Samantha's research interest is in exploring the use of technology to quantify human movement. She worked on projects that utilize eye-tracking technology and machine learning-based pose estimation to understand the movement of people, specifically with cerebral palsy. In her leisure time, Samantha enjoys playing the piano and trombone, drawing, and spending time outdoors.

Ryan Burgardt joins the lab as 3rd-year undergraduate student pursuing a B.S. in Kinesiology with a minor in Biology from Sauk Rapids, MN. In the future, he hopes to get a PhD and eventually work as an engineer. His research interests are translational research in children and mental health populations. He currently works as a caregiver at Clare Housing which provides supportive housing to those with HIV. In his free time, Ryan plays the clarinet in the UMN marching band, volunteers at the Aliveness Project, enjoys running, and attends drag shows.

Terry Sullivan is a 3rd-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor in Biomedical Engineering. He is interested in research and development of medical devices and the NeuRAL lab gives him hands on experience with patient interaction, data analysis, and assessments. Terry was born in Chicago and enjoys watching Chicago sports games in his free time. He is also a proud recipient of the Evans Scholarship for caddies

Sammy Burmeister is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing her B.S. in kinesiology and physical therapy. Her research interests are visual motor coordination and visual strategies in college-age people. She is in the PT club and was born in Shorewood, MN. In her free time, Sammy loves to cook, be outdoors, and spend time with friends and families

Jagar Hansen is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering. His research interests are comparing unilateral and bilateral rehabilitation. He is currently enrolled in the University Research Opportunities Program.