The Office of Human Subjects Protections (OHSP) is pleased to announce that Zachary Bynum, member of Dr. Michael Kilgard’s lab at the Texas Biomedical Device Center (TxBDC), has been selected as the recipient of the Spring 2025 HIVE Award!

Zach holds a BS in Neuroscience, MS in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience, and is currently in his second year of UTD’s Systems and Cellular Neuroscience PhD program. Initially a Biochemistry major, Zach switched to Neuroscience after taking an introductory course in the subject. He continued his studies at UTD, completing his master’s degree and beginning his PhD. At the TxBDC, Zach is currently working on developing new strategies to improve spinal cord injury and stroke neurorehabilitation outcomes via Vagus Nerve Stimulation, focusing primarily on non-invasive electrophysiological techniques. 

While Zach’s everyday lab activities vary, he typically spends his day coding so he can determine different ways to analyze the study data and ensure the accuracy of the analysis programs. He also interacts with participants during virtual check-ins or in-person sessions to assist with the necessary setup for the research study. Additionally, Zach plays an active role in both data collection and maintaining study documentation. 

When asked about one of the most important things he learned regarding human subjects research, Zach emphasized the value of patience and consistency. Whether it’s guiding participants through the study procedures or interacting with regulatory bodies (such as the FDA), learning how to be patient with himself and the research process has been the most valuable lesson. Ensuring that he remains up-to-date on current literature and data analysis techniques aids in maintaining consistency in his research. 

Dr. Eric Meyers, who co-mentors Zach along with Dr. Kilgard, shared that Zach exemplifies the core values of the HIVE Award by protecting participant confidentiality and ensuring appropriate documentation related to human subjects research. “He puts in the time in developing strong research habits by proactively seeking IRB guidance and attending training sessions on conducting HSR [human subjects research]. He stays curious and always wants to learn more about both the science and the regulations guiding HSR.”

Zach indicated the most rewarding part of the research has been the interactions with participants. He appreciates seeing how small changes can grow into a larger impact, representing a direct translation of the effort and research conducted at the TxBDC.

The Office of Human Subjects Protections proudly welcomes Zachary Bynum as a valued member of the HIVE!