We are excited to be working with a passionate group of volunteers who dedicate their time to support our research and projects. Our volunteers help in diverse capacities, including social media, event planning, publications, data collection, clinical research, and outreach. If you are interested in joining our team as a volunteer please visit our Get Involved page for more information.
Dianah Hayati
Dianah is an Integrated Sciences undergraduate student at UBC, integrating physiology and preventative medicine. Her research focuses include substance use, concurrent disorders, homelessness, and e-mental health. She is interested in exploring strategies, such as psychosocial treatment, for preventative measures and early intervention to serve vulnerable populations. Dianah hopes to promote patient-centered care for individuals with diverse backgrounds, and reduce barriers in accessing mental health resources through her research at the ACD lab.
Jenny Seo
Jenny is a 4th-year undergraduate student at UBC studying Neuroscience, with a focus on Behaviour & Cognition. Her current research explores the prevalence and risk factors of concurrent disorders in youth, as well as the use of serious games as a treatment tool for trauma and anxiety. Additionally, she is interested in the experiences of youth who have survived an overdose and hopes to contribute to more compassionate, accessible addiction and mental health care
Stella is a fourth-year Psychology student at UBC with a strong interest in the role of AI in mental health treatment, especially for youth. She is also passionate about addressing addiction and the overdose crisis through integrative approaches that include psychosocial support.
Daniel Sobat
Daniel is an Integrated Sciences undergraduate student at UBC, integrating neuroscience and public health. His past research includes projects in regenerative medicine and stem cell bioengineering at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, as well as clinical biochemistry analyses. He is interested in substance use and its relationship with the mental health of vulnerable populations, and is eager to contribute to the ACD Lab’s work in this realm.
Arman Movahed
Arman is a passionate Grade 12 student at Sentinel Secondary School with a strong interest in STEM and community service. He founded CozyCare, a non-profit providing care packages consisting of food and warm clothing to vulnerable populations in Downtown Vancouver. At the ACD Research Group, Arman studies opioid overdoses and the neurological effects of opioid use. His research has inspired the inclusion of naloxone kits in CozyCare’s packages, reflecting his mission to connect scientific research with real-world impact and community health.
Ivy plays an integral role in the ACD Lab, fostering a supportive and collaborative research environment through the delivery of puppy therapy. Her presence encourages wellness breaks, boosts morale, and reminds the team to always stop and pet the puppy.




