black and white bed linen

Behavioral Leadership in Education, Novel Science, and Dissemination (BLEND)

BLEND Logo of a red 6-point star with an inner blue circle
BLEND Logo of a red 6-point star with an inner blue circle

Our lab prioritizes disability justice and accessibility by conducting behavioral research, offering community training, and sharing valuable resources for the communities we serve.

Abstract picture of caregiver holding a child. Abstract picture of caregiver holding a child.

Disability Stigma Reduction

AI and Accessibility

Caregiver Community Training

Computer-based programs examining how stigma is shaped through verbal behavior and identifying strategies to reduce stigma and enhance perceptions of capability among people with disabilities.

Abstract image of human human holding a robotic hand. Abstract image of human human holding a robotic hand.
image of human brain connected to other communities. image of human brain connected to other communities.

An examination and application of the ways artificial intelligence can enhance accessibility and inclusion through direct support for students with disabilities and by assisting educators in integrating inclusive technologies into instructional practice.

A grant-funded caregiver training initiative that delivers behavioral services and structured caregiver support to families who do not currently have access to these resources.

Current and Ongoing Projects

Research Team

See the humans who carry this out! Click on any image to learn more about the person and links to their professional sites sharing their work.

Portrait of Rocco Catrone in vest and tie. Portrait of Rocco Catrone in vest and tie.
Headshot of Elizabeth Cambray-Engstrom in a red blazerHeadshot of Elizabeth Cambray-Engstrom in a red blazer
Headshot Picture of Dr. Ramakrishnan in a black blazer.
Headshot Picture of Dr. Ramakrishnan in a black blazer.

Rocco Catrone, PhD, BCBA-D, IBA, CPACC

Lab Head and Founder
Clinical Research Lead
Basic Research Lead

Elizabeth Cambray-Engstrom, PhD

Arvind Ramakrishnan, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA

headshot of Betania Locatti Macereno in a black blazerheadshot of Betania Locatti Macereno in a black blazer
Headshot picture of Noa Minter in a black turtleneck sweater.Headshot picture of Noa Minter in a black turtleneck sweater.
Headshot picture of Taylor guy in a graduation cap and gown.
Headshot picture of Taylor guy in a graduation cap and gown.

Betania Locatti Macareno

Doctoral Researcher
Doctoral Researcher
Post-Baccalaureate Reseacher

Noa Minter

Taylor Guy

Publications

Get in Touch

Connect with us for inquiries, collaborations, and support related to disability justice and inclusive practices in behavioral research.

Contact

Rocco Catrone, PhD, BCBA-D, IBA, CPACC

Support

rcatro2@uic.edu

BLEND LAB

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