Mental Health, Brain, and Behavioral Science Research Day
Mental Health, Brain, and Behavioral Science Research Day
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 3:15 PM
A day of discovery, collaboration, and innovation
The 5th annual university-wide Mental Health, Brain, and Behavioral Health Research Day brings together faculty, students, staff, and industry partners from across the University of Utah and beyond to share innovative research and spark new collaborations. This full-day event showcases advances in mental health, brain science, and behavioral health through expert presentations, poster sessions, and organic networking.
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Tell us what worked well, what could be improved, and which topics interest you most for future events. Answer a few short questions about the program, speakers, and opportunities for collaboration.
Event Location
Cleone Peterson Eccles Alumni House
155 S. Central Campus Drive
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
Get directions
Our Keynote Speakers
Ellis' interdisciplinary research reveals how early adversity and environmental stress shape anxiety, adaptation, learning, and development throughout the diverse human experience.
Fritz's research on chronic pain and nonpharmacologic care offers valuable insight into connections among physical health, well-being, and effective treatment approaches.
Williams' research on brain development and synapse formation illuminates biological mechanisms underlying complex behavior, neurodevelopmental disorders, and diverse mental health conditions.
Explore the agenda
Designed to foster connection across disciplines and strengthen industry partnerships, Research Day offers a unique opportunity to engage with other researchers and departments, expand your network, and contribute to the future of mental and behavioral health research.
8:00 AM
Come enjoy a free breakfast and network with peers!
9:00 AM
Welcome and Introduction
9:10 AM
Opening Remarks
9:20 AM
- Julie Fritz, PhD, PT, ATC | Associate Dean, Distinguished Professor, Department of Physical Therapy & Athletic Training
- Yang Bai, PhD | Associate Professor, Department of Health & Kinesiology
- Peter Fino, PhD | Professor, Department of Health & Kinesiology
- Kelly Baron, PhD, MPH, DBSM | Professor, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health
10:35 AM
Break and Poster Viewing
11:10 AM
- Bruce Ellis, PhD | Professor of Psychology and Anthropology, Department of Psychology
- Erin McGlade, PhD | Professor, Department of Psychiatry
- Dusti Jones, PhD, MS | Assistant Professor, Population Health Sciences; Researcher, Huntsman Cancer Institute
- Becky Zarate, PhD | Associate Dean of Research, College of Fine Arts
12:25 PM
Lunch and Poster Viewing
1:30 PM
- Megan Williams, PhD | Professor, Department of Neurobiology
- Becky Kinkead, PhD | Professor, Department of Psychiatry
- Jace King, PhD, MBA | Assistant Professor, Department of Radiology
- Vincent Koppelmans, PhD | Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry
2:45 PM
Announcement of Poster Awards
3:15 PM
Adjourn
Mental Health Translational research building
Opening in 2027, this state-of-the-art facility—which will include a 7 Tesla MRI, wet and dry labs, and space for specialized research areas—will bring together experts in science, AI, policy, and more to provide better care for mental health issues.
