Meet Meg Gestos, Lab Manager for CU REACH and CU Change Lab
Welcome to ICS Meg (MG).
MG: My job is split between The Center for Health and Neuroscience, Genes, and Environment (CUChange lab and the Center for Research and Education Addressing Cannabinoids and Health (CU REACH) research program, as the work I do primarily supports both Cinnamon Bidwell and Angela Bryan. I also support the PI’s with additional administrative tasks concerning CU REACH. I manage all administrative components within CUChange in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience and the Institute of Cognitive Science. My duties include: preparation and submission of grant submissions, budget and financial management, recruitment of research staff and undergraduate volunteers, mentorship and supervision of staff, IRB submissions and amendments, and assisting the Data Management Team with data management and collection strategies.
ICS: What is your background?
MG: I have a passion for research regarding the lived experience, with the aim to educate and promote positive mental and physical health for all people. In particular, I have an interest in research regarding body-image, self-esteem and substance abuse. Prior to moving from Sydney (Australia) to Colorado in 2018, attained a Bachelor of Behavioural Studies (Psychology) and held an extensive career in university research administrative management where I supported researchers, research students and managed research administrative teams. In addition, I have 12 months experience teaching undergraduate students in Behavioural and Health Sciences subjects. In Sydney, I commenced a PhD with a focus on mental health and gender studies, however my relocation to the USA has put all of that on hold (for now).
ICS: What are your hopes in this position?
MG: This position has been a natural progression within my existing career of research admin management, along with my background in psychology research, however before now I’ve never had the chance to combine the two! I’m excited to work with researchers and all team members at CUChange and CU REACH to do what I love the most: to lend a helping hand to further research that I believe in.