Lab Members

Erik D. Storholm, PhD - Director

Dr. Erik D. Storholm (he/him) is a tenured associate professor in the Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Science in the School of Public Health and director of the Sexual Health Equity Lab (SHEL) at SDSU. Dr. Storholm is a licensed clinical psychologist with an established behavioral research program focused on reducing health inequities through behavioral and biomedical interventions that prevent HIV/STI transmission by improving mental health and reducing substance use and violence among sexual and gender minority populations. Dr. Storholm is currently leading several NIH-funded projects focused on biobehavioral HIV prevention uptake and adherence among sexual and gender minorities.

Benji Jensen, MA - Program Manager

Benji joined the SHEL full time in June 2023. Prior to his role as Program Manager, Benji held various project management roles at San Diego State University dedicated to university safety, advising, and teaching. He completed a M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration at the Ohio State University and studied Psychology and Business Administration at Creighton University. Benji brings a holistic approach to improving health equity, applying his background in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) education, recruitment, and retention, to create participant-centered processes and form strong community partnerships. He also is a California certified HIV/HCV test counselor.

Carrie L. Nacht, MPH - PhD Research Assistant, Lab Manager

Carrie Nacht (she/her) is a 2nd year Ph.D. student in the Joint Doctoral Program in Public Health at San Diego State University/University of California San Diego. She previously attended University of Illinois at Chicago for her MPH in Epidemiology with a concentration in Global Health (2019), and finished two bachelor’s degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2016). Her research interests include sexual and reproductive health equity, reproductive justice, social support, power dynamics in sexual relationships, and sexual/reproductive health education and access.

Tyrone Jones - Research Assistant

Tyrone is a Senior at California State University San Marcos, passionately pursuing a degree in Psychology. His academic journey has led him to engage in research at UCSD, where he delved into the intricate behavioral dynamics of nicotine addiction. Driven by a profound commitment to public health, Tyrone aspires to make meaningful contributions to society by enhancing individuals' well-being. His research interests extend to advocating for sexual health equity, with a focus on addressing disparities among marginalized communities. Through his work, Tyrone seeks to foster positive change and promote inclusivity in healthcare initiatives.