Rachel Ni, MSc

Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator (Study Coordinator)

Rachel Ni earned her Master of Science in Developmental Psychopathology from the Durham University and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Drexel University. Prior to joining the lab, she worked with Dr. Sally Ozonoff, in the Early Detection Lab, on early identification of ASD. Rachel currently leads the middle childhood phase of the GAIN and APP studies. Outside of research, Rachel enjoys leading NeuroTeens, a social support group for neurodivergent girls and non-binary teens, and volunteering as a co-leader for various social skill groups at the MIND Institute. In the future, Rachel intends to pursue a career in autism research, with a focus on early identification and program development.

Tori Liggans

Jr. Specialist (Study Coordinator)

Tori Liggans earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Biology from Howard University. She has recently worked with school-aged children on the Autism Spectrum as a Registered Behavior Technician. Tori is currently working as a study coordinator for the adolescence phase of the APP study. In the future, Tori plans to continue her education by obtaining her doctorate in clinical psychology, specializing in children and adolescent care.

Val Sierakowski

Jr. Specialist (Study Coordinator)

Val Sierakowski is a recent graduate from UC Davis with a degree in Psychology. an undergraduate, he worked as a research assistant aiding in MRI scans and outreach in the Memory and Development Lab with Dr. Simona Ghetti studying associate memory formation in toddlers. We are excited to have him join our team as a study coordinator. He will be leading the early childhood visits for the GAIN study. In the future, Val plans to pursue a career in teaching and research, with a focus on equitable and flexible education.

Will Davis

Jr. Specialist (Study Coordinator)

Will Davis graduated from Jessup University in 2023 with his Bachelor of Arts in psychology. Prior to being a research coordinator with the Nordahl lab, he worked with children, teenagers, and young adults with autism as a Registered Behavior Technician. He currently recruits participants for the early childhood phase of the GAIN study. In the future, Will aspires to enter a doctoral program specializing in neuropsychology. Outside of work, Will enjoys going on hikes, basking in the sun, and reading contemporary fiction novels.