Dr. Krystal Mize

Dr. Krystal D. Mize is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Florida Gulf Coast University. She teaches a range of courses in developmental psychology, brain science research, and evolutionary developmental theory. Her teaching is designed to develop students’ transferable skills, including critical thinking and oral communication. Dr. Mize is also a Fellow of the Honors College and holds an appointment with the Shady Rest Institute for Positive Aging.

In addition to her classroom instruction, Dr. Mize leads a dynamic research laboratory where she mentors a large number of undergraduate students each semester. She integrates advanced tools and technology into her teaching, including the use of EEG equipment and a behavioral observation lab, providing students with hands-on research opportunities.

Dr. Mize’s interdisciplinary research is framed by evolutionary psychological theory and bridges social, developmental, and neurophysiological psychology. Her work explores the complexities of human behavior from infancy through adulthood, with a focus on how biological, psychological, and social factors interact across the lifespan.

A central theme of her work is the study of emotions, particularly jealousy. Over the past decade, Dr. Mize has been among the few scholars to argue that early forms of jealousy can emerge in infancy when a child experiences a loss of maternal attention to a social rival. This research has expanded to include paternal influences and the phenomenon of technoference—disruptions in parent-child interactions due to technology use. In adult populations, Dr. Mize has studied the extreme outcomes of jealousy, including intimate partner homicide. Her collaborations with evolutionary psychologist Dr. Todd Shackelford have led to several publications that emphasize the need for targeted social support systems to reduce relationship-related stressors.

Dr. Mize is also committed to improving understanding of atypical neurodegenerative conditions, particularly posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), a rare form of dementia often associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Her work centers the voices of individuals living with young-onset and atypical dementia, and she is in the process of organizing a virtual support group for PCA patients and their families.

She and her research team also conduct educational outreach, offering presentations to students, healthcare professionals, and community groups on the lived experiences of those affected by PCA.

Dr. Mize actively integrates student mentorship into her research activities. She regularly supervises over 20 undergraduates each semester through directed studies, honors theses, and funded research experiences. Under her guidance, students are trained in the use of cutting-edge technology, including EEG systems for brain activity measurement.

Her mentorship has led students to present at graduate-level conferences and collaborate on scholarly publications. Dr. Mize’s dedication to fostering student research reflects her broader commitment to building a vibrant, inquiry-driven academic environment at FGCU.

The EDP Lab, affectionately known as “The Everything Lab,” is a vibrant research and learning space at Florida Gulf Coast University led by Dr. Krystal Mize. The lab's name reflects its inclusive and interdisciplinary spirit—embracing a wide range of projects and ideas across the College of Arts and Sciences.

Under Dr. Mize’s guidance, the EDP Lab encourages collaboration among students and faculty from diverse academic backgrounds. It serves as a hub for innovative thinking, experiential learning, and cross-disciplinary research—aligning with FGCU’s mission to foster creativity and intellectual exploration.

If you're curious about the lab’s ongoing initiatives or are interested in collaborative opportunities, we invite you to connect with Dr. Mize through her faculty page. The EDP Lab welcomes those eager to engage, learn, and contribute to a dynamic academic community.

• EDP Lab: “The Everything Lab”

Blending personal narrative with educational insight, this website provides a first-person perspective on Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), a rare neurodegenerative condition that affects visual processing. Developed by Dr. Krystal D. Mize, it aims to increase awareness, support, and understanding of PCA. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, student, or medical professional, the content is designed to inform, connect, and encourage ongoing dialogue and research around this lesser-known form of dementia.

Explore the journey, learn more about PCA, and join the conversation.

• PCA: Through the Eyes of Dr. Mize