Kristi Gaines

Kristi Gaines is a Professor in the Department of Design and Associate Dean of the Graduate School at Texas Tech University. She is nationally recognized for her research on designing inclusive built environments for individuals with sensory sensitivities and developmental disorders, particularly Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). As co-founder of the Texas Tech University Coalition for Natural Learning and a member of a state-wide leadership team implementing outdoor learning health interventions, her work bridges design, neuroscience, and public health.

• Investigated built environment impacts for diverse populations across the U.S., U.K., and Malawi
• Combined neuroscience and augmented reality (fMRI technology) to study behavioral and neural responses in ASD
• Collaborated with apparel design researchers to develop functional clothing for children with sensory integrative differences

She has received multiple scientific awards, including the Chancellor's Council Distinguished Research Award and the President's Emerging Engaged Scholarship Award. Her book Designing for Autism Spectrum Disorders earned accolades from the top four interior and environmental design organizations.