Lab Manager
Jadyn Williams
I first began working in the IMPETuS lab as a research assistant in the Fall semester of 2022. I am beyond grateful to have the opportunity to step into my role as the IMPETuS lab manager for the 2025-2026 academic year! My research interests are centred around emotion regulation and mindfulness. Specially, I’m interested in exploring how the study of these mechanisms can inform both assessment and treatment. I hope to pursue further education in clinical psychology, with the ultimate goal of becoming a clinical research psychologist. I am excited and grateful to continue contributing to the lab and look forward to further developing my skills as a researcher and scholar.
Research Assistants
Melody Hogervorst
I recently graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in Spring 2025 as Dr. Wilson’s Honours Thesis student and have been employed as a research assistant. My thesis involved the link between helicopter parenting and undergraduate well-being, however I also have a profound interest in psychopathology treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety. I plan to apply for a graduate degree in clinical psychology for the 2026-27 admission cycle as it is my dream to become a psychologist.
Jasmine Kapoor
I’m currently a fourth-year student in the Psychology & Neuroscience program at Laurier. I am going to start working at the IMPETuS lab as a research assistant for this academic year! My main research interests revolve around a combination of abnormal and social psychology. More specifically, I’m especially interested in the impacts of mental health on various interpersonal relationships. After undergrad, I hope to pursue further education and end up with a career in clinical psychology.
Selena Mekhaeil
I am a second year Health Sciences student here at Wilfrid Laurier University. I am starting to volunteer as a research assistant at the IMPETuS lab this academic year. My research interests span across various dominants of psychology, with a particular interest in the bidirectional relationship between identity and motivation. I hope to further my education after my time at Laurier and pursue a career in medicine.
Nataly Morales Hernandez
I am currently a fourth-year Health Sciences student at Wilfrid Laurier University working toward a minor in Psychology. I am very excited to volunteer at IMPETuS Lab as a Research Assistant for this academic year! My main research interests lie within the field of social psychology, particularly in understanding how cultural norms and societal inequities influence well-being, identity, and relationships. After completing my undergraduate studies, I plan to apply to medical school, as I am deeply passionate and determined to pursue a career as a family physician.
Kamila Porębska
I recently completed my Master’s in Psychology and am currently working as a Research Assistant in Dr. Adair’s Culture at Work Lab at the University of Waterloo. My research interests center on social dynamics within multicultural communities, as well as the development of alternative approaches to youth justice systems. At the moment, I am continuing to explore these directions as I prepare to apply for PhD programs for Fall 2026. I’m excited to join the IMPETuS Lab for this academic year and look forward to seeing where the journey takes me!
Rajmeer Gill
I’m a fourth-year student in the Psychology & Neuroscience program at Wilfrid Laurier University, minoring in Biology. This year, I’ll be working as a research assistant at the IMPETuS Lab. My research interests center on the neuroscience of personality and how mental health influences interpersonal relationships. After completing my undergraduate degree, I will pursue a career in medicine, integrating my background in neuroscience, psychology, and biology to better understand and support mental health and well-being.
Grace Chiarenza
I am a fourth-year Psychology Research Specialist student. I am currently completing my thesis in Developmental Psychology, with a focus on children’s reading and language development. I have a strong passion for working with children and aspire to pursue a career as a psychotherapist specializing in child and relational therapy. In addition, I hold a deep interest in Social Psychology, particularly in exploring how individuals’ past experiences and expectations for the future influence their ability to thrive in society.
Henri Vandemoortele
I recently graduated in spring of 2025, and I am beginning my role as a Research Assistant with the IMPETuS lab this fall. I am incredibly grateful to have this opportunity, and I look forward to gaining valuable experience and skills while connecting with others. I also intend to pursue my masters in fall of 2026 in a behavioural science program. Some of my research interests include individual's motivation toward goals, and societal and group influence on individual decision making.
