Nuestro equipo

Tracy E. Crane, PhD, RDN

Associate Professor, Medical Oncology
Co-Lead, Cancer Control Research Program
Director, Digital Health and Lifestyle Medicine

tecrane@miami.edu
(305) 243-8255

Dr. Crane is an Associate Professor of Medical Oncology at the Miller School of Medicine. As the Director of Lifestyle Medicine and Digital Health at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, she is committed to building an evidence-based foundation for mobile health interventions to reach the greatest number of cancer survivors.

Grey Freylersythe, NBC-HWC

Senior Manager, Research Support
CRANE Lab

g.freylersythe@miami.edu
(305) 243-9832

Grey is the Senior Manager in Research Support for Dr. Crane’s research lab. Grey is a board-certified health and wellness coach with eight years of experience in lifestyle and behavioral research.

Aylin Barrios

Executive Assistant
CRANE Lab

abarrios6@miami.edu
(305) 243-5013

Aylin is Dr. Crane's executive assistant with a love for all things creative and cooking. Aylin is an professional entrepreneur with a degree in Health Information Technology from DeVry University's College of Health Sciences & Applied Sciences.

Paola Rossi, MD

Lifestyle Medicine Clinical Program Director

pxr495@miami.edu

Paola is the Lifestyle Medicine Clinical Program Director for Dr. Crane’s research lab, as well as an exercise physiologist and family and palliative care physician. She is spearheading the development of programs to meet the needs of cancer patients at Sylvester Cancer Center and the broader community.

Melissa Lopez-Pentecost, PhD, RDN

Post-Doctoral Research Fellow
Cancer Control Training in Disparities and Equity Program (C-TIDE)

mlopez-pentecost@miami.edu

Melissa is a Registered Dietitian and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. She received her Ph.D. in Clinical Translational Sciences at the University of Arizona.

Loren Yavelberg, PhD, CEP

Post-Doctoral Associate

l.yavelberg@med.miami.edu

Dr. Loren Yavelberg is a graduate of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Science at York University. He completed his PhD on the effects of intermittent fasting and exercise.

Dr. Loren Yavelberg's master's research work revolved around wearable technology during varying intensities and modalities of physical activity, and artificial pancreas investigations for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes.

Dr. Yavelberg has had the opportunity to work with a range of persons across the health continuum, including elite and professional athletes, as well as individuals with chronic disease. In addition to his role in searching for ground-breaking weight loss techniques, Dr. Yavelberg has been extensively involved in a number of research projects such as the development of a National Fitness Standard for Canadian Wildland Firefighters and Police Officers, as well as, The Pre-diabetes Physical Activity Intervention Project.

Harleen Kaur, PhD

Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Cancer Control Training in Disparities and Equity Program (C-TIDE)

hxk629@med.miami.edu

Your brief, informal third-person bio – Harleen is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her dissertation training encompassed the implementation of both digital and community-based diet and physical activity interventions tailored for cancer survivors. The focus of her dissertation was to elucidate the operative mediators of web-based interventions for cancer survivors, to advance the understanding and efficacy of lifestyle interventions to enhance dietary and physical activity behaviors. As a researcher, her ultimate aspiration is to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors through the provision of personalized diet and physical activity interventions across the cancer continuum.

LaShae Rolle, MPH, CPH

Doctoral Research Fellow
Prevention Science and Community Health

ldr84@miami.edu

LaShae is a Caribbean-born certified public health professional. She earned her BSc in Chemistry, and MPH in Epidemiology and Global Health. She is currently working toward her Ph.D. in Prevention Science and Community Health.

Madalyn Wheeler, MSEd

Doctoral Research Fellow
Exercise Physiology

mxw1071@miami.edu

Madalyn has her B.S. in Biochemistry and Biology from Roanoke College. She recently graduated at the University of Miami with an M.S.Ed. in Applied Physiology and began working toward a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology. Madalyn has been an active contributor for a number of programs, including Believe in You, You Got This, and the clinical trial OnPoint within the lab.

Monica Gutierrez Paneque, BSEd

Doctoral Research Fellow in Counselling Psychology

monicagutierrez@miami.edu

Monica is a Doctoral Research Fellow in Counselling Psychology at the CRANE Lab, focusing mainly on the LIFE-L Study. Her area of interests include understanding the relationship between food, culture, and health disparities within underrepresented communities.

Richard Ramos, MPH

Clinical Research Coordinator

r.ramos94@miami.edu

Richard is a Miami-born public health professional. He earned his BA in Biology and MPH degrees at the University of Miami. He began with the CRANE Lab as a Communications Intern. Since graduation, he has taken on the role of Clinical Research Coordinator.

Reanna Clavon, MPH

Clinical Research Coordinator

rdc139@med.miami.edu

Reanna received her BS in public health and Japanese, and her Masters of Public Health in epidemiology from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Her research interests include the impact of health behaviors on chronic disease outcomes and maternal and child health, specifically how maternal mental health impacts child development. Her personal interests include learning languages, reading fiction novels, playing and watching video games, and baking or cooking.

Alexandra Cruz, BS, BA

Clinical Research Coordinator

axc2609@med.miami.edu

Alexandra earned her BS in Biological Sciences and BA in Interdisciplinary Studies. She is currently working towards her MBA in Healthcare Management at Florida International University. She is passionate about preventative medicine and health equity amongst underserved populations. Her personal interests include traveling, learning new languages, sports, and weight training.

Warda Chaudhary, BS, MPH

Clinical Research Coordinator

wxc526@med.miami.edu

Warda serves as a Clinical Research Coordinator at the CRANE Lab. She received her BS in Health Sciences, Psychological Research Methods from DePaul University and earned her MPH in Global Health from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Her research interests include cancer survivorship and mental health. In her spare time, Warda enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family.

Rachel Kimble, MPH

Clinical Research Coordinator

rxk807@miami.edu

Rachel is a clinical research coordinator at the CRANE Lab with the LIFE-L study. She graduated with a Master in Public Health from the University of Miami in the spring of 2024. She hopes of pursuing medicine.

Juan Joly Perez, MD, MPH

Clinical Research Coordinator

jdj88@miami.edu

Juan is a doctor of medicine (MD) from Colombia and graduated with a Master of Public Health from the University of Miami. He is clinical research coordinator with the Life-L study and is also a certified respiratory therapist (RRT) with clinical experience in trauma, cardiac, and respiratory intensive care unit.

Ross Johnston, BSc

Software Developer

I'm Ross Johnston, a full-stack software developer with a BSc in Computer Science and a minor in Software Engineering from Western University, Ontario Canada. My career has taken me through diverse industries, including financial services, food and beverage (Restaurant Brands International - Burger King & Tim Hortons), and gaming (Ubisoft). I have built and optimized high-traffic web and mobile applications used by millions, ensuring top-notch performance, stability, and user experience. Outside of coding, I'm passionate about playing guitar and running, drawing on my background as a varsity sprint hurdler.

Kenna Hollander, BS

Graduate Research Assistant
Masters of Science in Education

kxh909@miami.edu

Kenna is a graduate research assistant at CRANE Lab. She has her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Georgia and is now a first-year graduate student at the University of Miami pursuing a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. Kenna has hopes of pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology following her Master’s.

Nicole Saldarriaga Vargas, BS

Graduate Research Assistant
Masters of Public Health

nxs1422@miami.edu

Nicole is a graduate student at the University of Miami in the Master of Public Health program, working toward a future career in health policy. She has recently joined the CRANE Lab as a graduate research assistant on the LIFE-L study. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, pilates, and attending concerts.

Alexandria Scarlett, BS

Graduate Research Assistant
Masters of Public Health

aps205@miami.edu

Alexandria Scarlett is a new Research Assistant from Port St. Lucie, Florida. She received her
Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Florida along with obtaining a minor in
Disabilities in Society. She is currently attending the University of Miami School Miller School of
Medicine in the Master’s of Public Health Program. Alexandria’s current passions include
reading, spending time with her family and friends, and playing with her two dogs. She is a first
generation student and will be the first in her family to pursue a masters. Her current goal is to
graduate from her masters program and attend medical school. She is so excited to be on board
with an amazing team!

Anna Hernandez, BS

Graduate Research Assistant

avh58@miami.edu

Anna is a first-year student in the Master of Public Health program at the University of Miami. She recently graduated with a bachelor’s in political science and public health from Florida State University. Her career goals consist of creating and furthering research in many areas of the public health world. A few of her favorite things to do include spending time with friends, playing with dogs, and painting. She is very passionate about health and nutrition, which is what piqued her interest in joining the CRANE Lab team. A fun fact about Anna is that she has been a vegetarian for over 7 years.

Sydney Cooper, BS

Graduate Research Assistant

sac6224@miami.edu

Sydney is a graduate research assistant at the CRANE Laboratory. She graduated with her B.S. in Exercise Physiology from the University of Miami and is currently pursuing her Master's in Applied Physiology. Post graduation, she hopes to become a clinical exercise physiologist and work with oncology patients or in cardiac rehabilitation.

Stefan Spee Erlandsen, MSEd

Exercise Physiologist, CRANE Lab

sns180@miami.edu

Stefan is a graduate kinesiology intern at CRANE lab. He is a M.S.Ed Applied Physiology major at the University of Miami. Stefan studied Kinesiology from Universidad Mayor in Santiago de Chile, and has over 8 years of experience in sports medicine and kinesiology.

Deborah Fortino, MS, ACSM-CPT, ACE

CRANE Lab Health Coach

dnf9@med.miami.edu

Bryan Mejia, MS

CRANE Lab Health Coach

bxm971@miami.edu

Bryan Mejia, a Miami native with Honduran roots, earned his master’s degree in sport & exercise psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato. During his adolescent years, he engaged in various sports, including football, basketball, track, and soccer. As an NCAA football and track & field athlete at Central College in Pella, Iowa, he not only excelled in sports but also delved into psychological research projects, presenting his findings at two research conferences hosted by the Midwestern Psychological Association.

Driven by a passion for psychological research and a desire to help others lead fulfilling lives, Bryan pursued a career in sport & exercise psychology. After graduating from his master’s program, he became a high school instructor at Miami SLAM Charter High School, teaching AP and dual enrollment psychology courses. Bryan also created the school’s first sport & exercise psychology elective class and collaborated with SLAM athletic teams to provide sport psychology workshops. After three years of teaching and coaching, Bryan transitioned into higher education as an academic advisor for the Miami Herbert Business School.

His research interests include human flourishing, positive psychology, and the psychological factors affecting happiness and motivation. Bryan is also an advocate for an active lifestyle, enjoying hobbies such as cycling, weightlifting, hiking, exploring museums and parks, and traveling. In his spare time, he works on his antique car project—a 1981 Chevrolet El Camino.

In addition to his professional commitments, Bryan serves as a freelance sport psychology practitioner. Through collaborations with local and national athletes, teams, and universities, he designs and implements tailored psychological skills programs, utilizing both in-person and remote platforms to maximize accessibility and impact."

Nuestros compañeros

Tenemos el privilegio de colaborar con un equipo diverso de profesionales de la salud de Sylvester Cancer Center. Nuestros esfuerzos de colaboración se extienden a médicos, dietistas, fisiólogos del ejercicio y muchos otros expertos en sus respectivos campos. Su experiencia y pasión nos permiten brindar atención integral y holística a los sobrevivientes de cáncer, y nos sentimos honrados de tenerlos como parte de nuestro equipo.

Jessica MacIntyre, ARNP NP-C AOCNP

Executive Director, Clinical Operations, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Anna Gonzales, RDN LDN

Oncology Dietitian, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Federika Garcia, MS RDN LDN CNSC

Clinical Nutrition Manager, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Leslie Beth Klein, RD

Oncology Dietitian/Clinical Nutrition Manager, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Miembros anteriores del equipo

Angie Gaitan, BA

Graduate Research Assistant
Masters of Public Health

avg72@miami.edu

Angie Gaitan is an accomplished and dedicated professional with a strong academic background and a passion for public health, research, and community service. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Angie's educational journey began at Miami-Dade Dual Language Honors College, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree in Biology. She then pursued her Bachelor of Arts in Biology at Johns Hopkins University, where she demonstrated her resilience and determination to excel academically.
Her research experiences reflect her profound interest in scientific inquiry. Angie actively participated in the MDW Inflammatory Biomarkers Study at Johns Hopkins University. In addition to her academic and research pursuits, Angie engaged in extracurricular activities, including membership in organizations such as Johns Hopkins Underrepresented in Medical Profession (JUMP), Student Government Association, and Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society.
Angie's commitment to her community is further exemplified through her volunteer work at the Pediatric Emergency Department of Johns Hopkins Hospital. Angie has been an essential part of the healthcare team. Her presence has undoubtedly enhanced the overall patient experience by offering comfort, empathy, and a reassuring presence during often stressful times.

Taylor Carto, MD Candidate

Oncology and Related Health Disparities Pathway Intern
Miller School of Medicine

tlc152@med.miami.edu

Taylor is a second year medical student at the University of Miami. She studied chemical engineering at Michigan State University before following her passion for medicine. Taylor aims to make a lasting impact in the field of medicine and contribute to the development of innovative treatments and therapies.

Zoë Nouet Robins

Volunteer

Atiff Bhatti, MPH

Graduate Research Assistant
Masters of Public Health

axb2836@miami.edu

Atif is an MPH student at the University of Miami and a Graduate Research Assistant at the CRANE Lab. Atif spent two years working in cancer research as a clinical research coordinator at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, WA before joining the CRANE lab in 2022.

Carlos Wright, MPH

Graduate Research Intern
Masters of Public Health

cxw954@miami.edu

Carlos received his BS in Health Sciences from the University of South Florida. He is now in the second year his Master of Public Health degree at the University of Miami. His goal is to work in healthcare to assist underserved communities to improve quality of life and cardiovascular outcomes. He has always been attentive to diet and exercise, having played sports for many years.

Ruth de Mesa, MPH

Social Media Manager

rxd2099@miami.edu

Ruth is a Health Communications Intern at CRANE lab, where she serve as the social media manager. She recently completed her Master's in Public Health at the University of Miami.

Manisha Israni, MBA

CRANE Lab Graphic and Video Designer

msi25@miami.edu

Manisha Israni is a passionate media professional with a wealth of experience in visual content creation. She holds an MBA and is currently pursuing an MFA in Documentary Production at the University of Miami to explore her creative passions further. With her expertise in production, direction, and editing, Manisha has earned recognition as an award-winning filmmaker. Alongside her media pursuits, she is a certified yoga instructor and published author in the field. Her love for storytelling and wellness brings a refreshing perspective to her work.

Julio C. Rodriguez MS, ACSM- CEP/CET

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Christopher Fitzmaurice, MS. ACSM-CEP/CET

Clinical Exercise Physiologist and Cancer Exercise Trainer

Farid Mawanda, BS

Graduate Research Assistant
Masters of Public Health

fam82@miami.edu

Farid Mawanda is a first-generation Ugandan, who was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, with a minor in chemistry, from Saint Anselm College in 2020. Farid is currently in his first semester of courses in pursuit of a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Miami: Miller School of Medicine.
With the combination of the extensive professional skills he has gained over the years, and the knowledge being passed down to him from the University of Miami, Farid looks to pursue a career within the United Nations. Farid is an exceptionally bright individual looking to help the world wherever he can.
In Farid’s free time, he likes to participate in a wide variety of hobbies. From being a professional runway model to learning how to play the piano, his interest does not stop there. When Farid has downtime, you can find him reading about the wonders of this world, or playing a video game. Although the information above shines a small light on what makes Farid the Renaissance man he is today, there is one more thing that brings it all together, he loves to sing Karaoke with friends. You can catch Farid every Wednesday night at the Rathskeller on the University of Miami main campus, signing out his heart's desire.

Zuhair Khan, BS

Graduate Research Assistant
Masters of Public Health

zmk8@miami.edu

Zuhair is a current M.P.H. student interested in widespread health disparities. Zuhair received
his B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Illinois Urbana - Champaign.
While in college, Zuhair was primarily engaged in health research and community service, which
led him to develop an interest for public health. After graduating, Zuhair worked at a Federally
Qualified Health Center located in Chicago, Illinois, supporting a collaborative research grant
centered around health education community interventions. After earning his master’s degree,
Zuhair wishes to pursue a doctoral degree in Epidemiology, with aims of working in the field of
clinical and translational science

Ella Bunn

Undergraduate Research Intern

eab271@miami.edu

Johnathon Johnson

Graduate Research Intern
Masters of Public Health

jxj2138@miami.edu

Justin Harris, BS

Graduate Research Intern

Sabrina Khan, BS

Graduate Research Assistant

Sabrina is a Canadian-born Medical Physics graduate student obtaining her Master of Science at the University of Miami and a Graduate Research Assistant at the CRANE lab. She obtained a Bachelor's in Health Physics and Radiation Science from Ontario Tech University.