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The TECH Research Lab Teens Engaging in Change for Health Lab

The TECH Research Lab, directed by Dr. Ana M. Gutierrez-Colina, is housed within the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Colorado State University.

About Us

The Teens Engaging in Change for Health (TECH) Research Lab is dedicated to improving adolescent health outcomes by understanding and promoting health behavior change.

We study self-regulatory cognitive, psychosocial, and contextual mechanisms that underlie key health behaviors (e.g., physical activity, treatment adherence, sleep), particularly in pediatric populations. Our work integrates behavioral science, developmental research, and digital technologies to examine how adolescents engage with and sustain health behaviors in real-world settings.

Much of our research focuses on youth from underserved backgrounds, including racially/ethnically minoritized communities and those living in rural areas. Ultimately, we aim to develop, test, and implement innovative, equitable, and evidence-based digital interventions that empower all teens to engage in health behaviors that support long-term health.

Our Research

Ongoing Research Projects

  • Real-Time Assessment of Mental Health, Cognitive Functioning, and Physical Activity in Youth at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes: This study employs ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine adolescents’ daily experiences with emotions, cognitive functioning, and physical activity.
  • Feasibility of a Novel Ecological Momentary Assessment Protocol in Adolescents: This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of using real-time ambulatory cognitive testing and daily health data collection in the daily lives of adolescents at risk for type 2 diabetes.
  • Digital Health Tools for Rural Families: This study seeks to develop and test technology-based tools that improve engagement with, and access to, a mental and cardiovascular health program for families in rural communities.
  • Executive Function Phenotypes in Youth with Diabetes: This study examines patterns of executive functioning (e.g., working memory, attention, cognitive flexibility) in youth with type 1 diabetes to identify both cognitive challenges and strengths that may influence self-management and overall health outcomes.

We also collaborate closely with investigators at CSU and other institutions on projects involving youth with other health conditions, including overweight/obesity and both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Join Our Team

We welcome curious, motivated students who are passionate about adolescent health, psychology, and behavioral science. Whether you’re just starting out and want hands-on research experience or you’re ready to take on graduate-level projects, the TECH Research Lab offers opportunities to get involved and grow.

Prospective Graduate Students

Dr. Gutierrez-Colina is currently accepting new PhD students for the 2026-2027 academic year. The Department of Human Development and Family Studies offers a collaborative, research-focused training environment with strong faculty mentorship and a commitment to student growth and success. As part of their doctoral training, graduate students can choose to specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy (clinical license eligible) or Prevention Science.

Graduate students in the TECH Research Lab:

  • Lead both independent and collaborative research projects
  • Receive mentorship in grant writing, research, and career development
  • Co-author peer-reviewed publications
  • Present their work at local/national conferences
  • Join a supportive research team dedicated to improving adolescent health

If you are interested in joining, email Dr. Gutierrez-Colina with your CV and a brief note about your research interests. We’d love to hear from you!

For Current Undergraduate Students

We welcome undergraduate students who are interested in health, psychology, adolescent development, or behavioral research to get involved in the TECH Research Lab. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and build a strong foundation for graduate school or careers in psychology, healthcare, developmental science, public health, and related fields.

Undergraduate research assistants in the TECH Research Lab:

  • Assist with recruitment, data collection, and study coordination
  • Participate in lab meetings and team projects
  • Contribute to conference presentations and research publications
  • Build skills and experience that prepare you for graduate study and research careers
  • Join a supportive and collaborative team passionate about adolescent health

If you are interested in joining, email Dr. Gutierrez-Colina with your CV and a brief note about your interest in joining the lab.

We typically accept new undergraduate research assistants (RAs) each semester. No prior research experience is required – just enthusiasm, teamwork skills and a strong desire to learn! Minimum commitment is 10 hours/week for at least two consecutive semesters.

Lab News

July 2025 — A recent publication by Dr. Gutierrez-Colina and collaborators in the Journal of Latinx Psychology was selected as an APA Editor’s Choice, a recognition awarded to research that reflects “science that is exceptionally important, impactful, and deserves additional visibility for the whole field.”