October 2024 Awards and Accolades

Candace Lewis, assistant professor in the School of Life Sciences and Department of Psychology, was awarded the NIH Director’s New Innovator Award for her project, “Individually Measured Endophenotypes to Advance Computational Translation in Mental Health.”

This award supports highly innovative research from promising early stage investigators within 10 years of completing their terminal research degree or postgraduate clinical training. To be considered for this award, applicants must submit a 10-page essay describing the significance of the problem/challenge being addressed; the general approach to be taken to address the problem/challenge; why the project is unusually innovative; and the qualities and experiences of the investigator that make them especially well-suited to pursue such research.

Lewis’ project addresses the growing burden of stress-related psychiatric disorders (SRPDs), particularly among women and marginalized groups. Traditional research methods are inadequate due to the complexity and continuous nature of SRPD risk factors and symptoms. The project introduces the "GEAN Model" (Genetics, Epigenetics, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and Neurobiology) to identify individual-level biocomposite clusters using advanced computational approaches. The study aims to link ACE history with SRPD symptoms, identify key genetic and brain markers and validate findings in clinical cohorts. This innovative, interdisciplinary approach will advance precision medicine in mental health and improve SRPD risk prediction and treatment strategies.

Growing up in rural Alaska, Lewis witnessed high rates of poverty, mental illness, violence and addiction, which inspired her to transform mental health understanding, treatment and policy. She earned a master's in counseling and a PhD in behavioral neuroscience, followed by post-doctoral work at TGen and the University of Zurich. Lewis now directs the BEAR Lab, which studies the effects of early social experiences on epigenetics and the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy for mental health. Her research aims to address the harm done by psychology and genetics to minority groups, promote diversity and influence policy. Outside of work, she enjoys family time, outdoor activities, music festivals and exploring spirituality and social justice.

Shae Chiandet, academic personnel specialist, senior in the School of Life Sciences was featured in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences’ Administrative Cohort Staff Spotlight. Chiandet is a member of the Director's Office team in SOLS and provides personnel support to faculty. Her work focuses on faculty personnel processes from recruitment, reviews and promotions, through retirement and emeritus requests. 

Chiandet was chosen for the spotlight in celebration of her contributions to SOLS and The College.

Read the Admin Cohort Staff Spotlight below!

How long have you worked at ASU and in what capacity?

I have worked at ASU in the School of Life Sciences (SOLS) for about three years. My role began as Assistant to Director, and six months later, promoted to the position of Academic Personnel Specialist.

What are three things you can‘t live without?

Three things I cannot live without are music, sunshine, and chocolate. Music just gives all the feels. Sunshine was scarce growing up in Ohio. And chocolate – one of the great joys of modern life!

What have you been reading, watching, or listening to lately?

My entertainment is mainly sci-fi and fantasy like Dr. Who, Star Trek, and The Witcher, with a little Real Housewives and 90-Day Fiancée on the side.

What is your personal mantra or a quote that inspires you?

Years ago, I read that words have an impact on the structure of water/ice crystals. I began reciting these words rhythmically in my head as I watered my plants, specifying to share these intentions with my neighbors and visitors. My plants flourished and it made me feel good, so now I chant these words in my head regularly, especially when I need to quickly divert my thoughts: friendship, love, gratitude - courage, acceptance, peace.

Finally, what other advice would you give to the Admin Cohort?

My advice to the Admin Cohort is to embrace your role as a member of the team. Yes, we are all very capable as individuals, but we can do so much more when we work as a team – in our own units, across The College, and throughout campus.