Faculty and Graduate Research Opportunities For Undergraduates

Please note some opportunities listed are held over from past semesters; please contact the individual researchers for information on future opportunities. Also, please note that this is not a complete list; you may also want to review the list of Faculty Research Interests and contact faculty whose interests correspond with yours.

NOTE: These ads are for undergraduate research assistants; compensation is research experience credit or work-study pay based on a financial aid award. These positions are not available to graduate students seeking stipend support.

You can either scroll through the entire list, or click below to go directly to the area in which you are most interested:

Non-department opportunities (good experience, elective credit available)

Are you interested in research experience?
Do you like learning about the lives of
families and children?
Spring Semester Independent Study
with the Family Life Project
(1-3 credits)

We are seeking organized, inquisitive, and enthusiastic undergraduate students to earn independent study credits in the Spring Semester with the Prevention Research Center’s Family Life Project.

As part of a large study into the lives of children in rural areas, you will have the opportunity to learn about longitudinal research and the lives of elementary school-aged children in Central Pennsylvania. Responsibilities will include conducting phone-based interviews with families about recent changes in their lives and child care arrangements. Students interested in learning about child development, family relations, surveys, interviewing techniques, and social science research are encouraged to apply.
Must have evening availability, though some flexibility on days and weekends is also possible. More information about the Family Life Project can be found at: http://www.fpg.unc.edu/~flp

To Apply: Send a letter of interest, resume, and names and phone numbers for three references to Dr. Maureen Ittig at mpi2@psu.edu or call with questions to 814-863-1307

Dr. Susan Woodhouse (Counseling Psychology)
Caregiving, Attachment, and Regulation of Emotion Lab
(Note: this opportunity is not available for PSYCH credit.)

Description of the Research: The research in this lab takes an attachment theory perspective on understanding interactions between mothers and their infants. We do research on the development of infant attachment and emotion regulation. We also conduct research about attachment and the psychotherapy relationship and process.
Possible Roles in the Project: We are looking for students who are interested in:
1.            Learning how to work with heart rate data. You will learn about the different components of an ECG graph and work on cleaning data for analysis and calculation of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) scores.
2.         Learning how to use SPSS for data entry, perhaps manage data in the lab (if interested), and possibly learn how to help out with some data analysis (if interested).
3.         Working in a variety of lab tasks e.g., tracking of data flow, helping with procedures for participant recruitment.
4.         Assisting with literature searches and reviews.
Gain valuable research experience! Research experience is important when you apply to graduate school. Research experience will help you figure out if you might be interested in doing research in the future. You will learn valuable skills to put on your resumé. You can earn academic credits.
Time Commitment: We are looking for interested, motivated and dependable students to join our research team. Research assistants must be able to devote 6 hours a week to our research project. We prefer students who can commit for the school year (fall and spring). We have openings for RA's starting in the fall--or you can start in the summer and continue for the school year.

Number of undergraduates needed: 4-5

Minimum qualifications: Research assistants must have a 3.33 or higher G.P.A. (in psychology or other relevant classes) and a 3.0 GPA overall.
Contact Dr. Susan Woodhouse via email at ssw10@psu.edu
Interviews with interested students will be scheduled.

Margaret Marks, M.A. and Dr. Kathy Bieschke (Counseling Psychology)
Non-departmental Research Opportunity (Counseling psychology research credits available) Note: this opportunity is not available for PSYCH credit.

Are you interested in factors that influence graduate training in psychology? Undergraduate research assistant needed to work on a dissertation research project in the Counseling Psychology department. Responsibilities may consist of completing Institution Review Board (IRB) paperwork (you will learn about different components and requirements of IRB’s for universities inside and outside of Penn State University); assisting with procedures for participant recruitment and tracking of data; and learning how to use SPSS for data entry, perhaps manage data (if interested), and possibly learn how to help out with some data analysis (if interested). Training and supervision are provided.

Research assistants will receive research course credits up to 3 semesters. Generally, one credit is given for every 3 hrs of work per week, although actual hrs worked may vary. You will gain knowledge about graduate training programs as well as valuable research skills. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in learning more about clinical and counseling graduate programs.
Students must be motivated, conscientious, and responsible. Candidates must give a 2-semester commitment to the project and be able to work at least 5-7 hrs/week. Preference will be given to students with a 3.33 or higher G.P.A. (in psychology or other relevant classes) and a 3.0 GPA overall. If you’re interested please contact Margaret Marks, M.A. (mmm452@psu.edu).

Doug Teti, Ph.D.
Human Development and Family Studies
Project SIESTA

Now recruiting for Spring 2011

Description of Research: How do infants learn to fall asleep and stay asleep? What role do parents play in this? What influence does temperament have, and how does it all affect attachment and daytime functioning, as well as parental adaptation? SIESTA stands for the Study of Infants’ Emergent Sleep TrAjectories. Project SIESTA will follow infants from 1 month to 2 years of age, collecting data from the infants, their mothers and fathers along the way. The study focuses on infant sleep, parent-infant relationships and infant cognitive and socio-emotional development. We are interested in understanding how sleep develops within the family unit across the first 2 years of age, how families adapt to infants’ sleep behaviors, how individual differences in sleep and parents’ attitudes toward sleep and their parenting behaviors impact infant and family outcomes. We will also examine other components of parenting and early child development, including behavior problems, compliance, cortisol, parental emotional availablity, life stressors, coparenting, and emotion regulation, among others. The scope of knowledge we will obtain about family development from this study is wide, and data collected from families will include questionnaires from both mothers and fathers as well as video recordings of parent-infant interactions in the home and in the lab.

Method of Compensation: Research assistants will receive up to 6 course credits (HDFS 497) over up to 3 semesters. Generally, one credit is given for every 3 hours of work per week, although actual hours worked may vary. You will gain knowledge about infant development parental adaptation, as well as valuable research skills. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in learning more about human development in preparation for graduate school. This study may also provide an opportunity for a senior honors thesis, if students are interested.

Requirements/Qualifications: Students must be motivated, conscientious, and responsible. Candidates must give at least a 2-semester commitment to the project and be able to work at least 10 hrs/week. Preference is given to students who will be available to work in the summer. Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: participant recruitment, data collection, management, and analysis. If you’re interested please e-mail Corey Whitesell at cjw142@psu.edu for an application.

BIOLOGICAL/NEUROSCIENCE

The HUMAN ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY FACILITY, part of the new Social, Life, and Engineering Sciences Imaging Center, is currently recruiting RESEARCH ASSISTANTS for summer and fall terms. Research assistants are responsible for assisting multiple researchers, using the facility's EEG systems. No experience is necessary, and a minimum two-semester commitment is HIGHLY desirable. If you are interested, please contact Andrea Seisler, HEF Lab Manager, ars17@psu.edu. (posted June 2009)

Sheri Berenbaum

Description of Research: Why do girls & boys behave in different ways? If you’re interested in gaining research experience while learning about biological influences on the development of sex-typed behavior, we are currently seeking motivated & responsible undergraduate research assistants to help collect, enter, & analyze data.

Method of Compensation: Research assistants will receive Research Project credits (PSY 494). Generally, one credit is given for every 3 hrs of work per week, although actual hrs worked may vary. You will gain knowledge about gender development & hormone-behavior relations, as well as valuable research skills. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in learning more about human neuroscience or developmental psychology in preparation for graduate school.

Requirements/Qualifications: Students must be motivated, conscientious, & responsible. Candidates must give at least a 3-semester commitment to the lab, & be able to work at least 10 hrs/week (including 1 hour for a lab meeting). Preference is given to students who will be available to work in the summer and to those who are interested in pursuing research careers. If you’re interested & want to learn more about the lab, please complete an application on-line at http://www.personal.psu.edu/faculty/s/a/sab31/application.html

Frederick M. Brown
863-1716, f3b@psu.edu

Description of Research: Daily (circadian) rhythms of our daytime activity and nighttime sleeping affect all our basic behaviors and mental functioning. Some of these highly predictable rhythms are studied in our Human Performance Rhythms Laboratory (354 Moore). We have developed a Basic Language Morningness (BALM) scale that measures the time of day when people like to be active the most. Also, we have just developed a Sleep-Disruption Survey to determine how often, and for how long, people spontaneously wake up during the night, and what they do about it. We also study sleep-deprivation effects on practical issues like vehicle driving performance and working memory and are prepared to measure sleep deprivation using high-density EEG.

Requirements: Sophomore or Junior level with graduate school intentions; must have completed Psych 301 and Stat 200 (or its equivalent), and must be computer literate for data management and analysis. Because of the start-up training time especially for learning high-density EEG, we expect a student to remain in the laboratory for at least two semesters.

Method of Compensation: Although students can earn from 1-6 course credits per semester for Psych 294 or 494, 3 credits maximum is suggested for Psych 294 while training in the laboratory the first semester, and Psych 494 thereafter. The experience is excellent for learning several ways to collect data that measure effects of daily time fluctuations on our behavior. Several of our students have received laboratory externship and fellowship experiences beyond Penn State which have bolstered their applications for graduate and medical programs. Honors options are available that can become Psych 496 Independent Studies or Senior Thesis Research projects.

Dr. Doug Teti (HDFS)
dteti@psu.edu

We are looking for undergraduate volunteers, perhaps for course credit, to assist in a project that is investigating the neuroscience of emotion regulation in parents. We are using EEG techniques to assess mothers’ emotional responses and regulation to parenting and child-related stimuli. This is an innovative project that is on the cutting edge of the field. The goal of the project is to develop new procedures to identify parents at risk, which can be used both in research and applied settings.

Eligible undergraduates would be juniors or seniors next fall. We are interested in research assistants available to start this summer (if possible) and continue during the fall and spring. You will receive training in assisting with EEG lab visits, as well as home visits that include questionnaire and family observation.

If you are interested, please contact Dr. Doug Teti (dteti@psu.edu). Please include your year of schooling as of next fall, your academic interests, GPA, and one or two references. Note: this opportunity is not available for PSYCH credit.

CLINICAL

Peter Arnett, Ph.D.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGY RESEARCH LAB

FULL FOR SPRING 2012

Contact information:
Gray Vargas (gav111@psu.edu)
Dede Ukueberuwa (dedemu@psu.edu)

Description of Research: Our research looks at changes in cognitive, affective, and behavioral functioning that result from brain injury or disease. We investigate brain injury in college athletes who have suffered mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) due to concussion. We also examine psychosocial factors, specifically depression, in the context of multiple sclerosis (MS), a common and debilitating disease of the central nervous system. Undergraduate research assistants will be trained to score standardized measurements, enter data, and use statistical software. They will also attend lab meetings and, depending upon interest and ability, participate in other lab projects. Experience in a research lab exposes students to research design and implementation, allows students to understand the clinical applications of such research, and provides students with advice and training that enhance their applications to graduate and medical school programs.

Requirements/Qualifications: We are looking for motivated, conscientious, and responsible undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.2 who are interested in research experience in clinical psychology. Interested students must be able to commit a minimum of 2 semesters to the lab, 6-9 hours per week during the semester. Preference is given to students with interests in pursuing graduate training in the mental health field, or medical training in neurology, neurosurgery, or psychiatry.

Methods of Compensation: Undergraduate research assistants receive 1 Independent Study (Psy 296) or 1 Research Project (Psy 494) credit for every 3 hours worked. Students can earn up to 3 course credits for 9 hours of work per week. Opportunities to continue work in the lab may be available over summers and beyond the current academic year. Honors options for Psy 496 Independent Studies or Senior Thesis Research projects may be available after 2 semesters of participation and satisfactory performance in the lab. Please contact one of the above graduate students for more details and to schedule an interview. In your email, include your current year of schooling, your major or academic interests, your GPA, and any prior research experience.

Sandra Azar

Now recruiting

Description of Research: Dr. Sandra T. Azar’s research lab studies a variety of issues including inter-personal violence, at-risk child and adolescent populations, and parenting processes. Previous projects from the Azar lab have examined dating violence, child abuse, and peer aggression. Current studies in the lab focus on resilience to divorce, adolescent to parent violence, and maternal mental retardation and neglect. The diversity of projects in the lab allows for a wide range of experiences for undergraduate research assistants. Undergraduate assistants may be trained to score standardized behavioral rating scales, enter data, conduct literature searches, and gain experience with statistical software. Exceptional students may participate in home visits with study participants. In addition, weekly lab meetings provide a forum to discuss theory and clinical applications of the research, to address any questions that arise from work in the lab, and provide career guidance.

Method of Compensation: Undergraduate assistants may receive course credit (Psy 494) for 10 hours per week of work. To obtain course credit, students are required to complete readings, to attend lab meetings and to write a paper. Students who qualify for Work-Study are encouraged to apply, as you may be able to earn money working in our lab. Honors options for Senior Thesis research projects may be available after 2 semesters of participation and satisfactory performance in the lab.

Requirements/Qualifications: Due to the intensive training involved, we require at least a 2 semester commitment and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students find the extended commitment provides them with an opportunity to become involved in the work team as well as to get advice about jobs and graduate school, while having a substantive experience in a research lab. Preference is given to Sophomores or Juniors with interests in pursuing either graduate training in mental health or careers related to children.

Please note we can currently accommodate about 2-4 more enthusiastic and responsible undergraduates.

Contact Information: Please contact Dr. Azar’s (sta10@psu.edu) for more details and to schedule an interview.

Louis G. Castonguay, Ph.D.

Description of Research: Louis Castonguay's primary research interest concerns the process and outcome of different forms of psychotherapy. He studies the nature and impact of the therapist's interventions, client's experience, and the therapeutic relationship. He has also been involved in the development and investigation of integrative therapies (combining cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, interpersonal, and psychodynamic procedures) for depression and generalized anxiety disorder. He is also involved in the development of Practice Research Networks, which are designed to foster researcher and clinician collaboration in conducting naturalistic studies in psychotherapy and related fields of research.

Requirements/Qualifications: Looking for students who are bright, highly motivated, and responsible, interested in pursuing doctoral level studies, and can juggle multiple projects. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 and be able to commit approximately 10 hours per week during the semester.

Method of Compensation: Research assistants will receive Independent Study credits or Work Study opportunities. Generally, one hour of credit is given for every three hours of work per week, although actual hours worked may vary. There are opportunities for work study if you are eligible. Advanced students may have the opportunity to be involved in writing of journal articles and presentations for conferences. Research assistants will also gain valuable research skills and the potential for letters of recommendation to aid in graduate school applications. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in preparation for doctoral studies in clinical psychology or related areas. Please contact one of the above graduate students for more details and to schedule an interview. In your email, include your current year of schooling, your major or academic interests, your GPA, and any prior research experience.

Contact information:
Andrew McAleavey (andrew.mcaleavey@gmail.com)
Samuel Nordberg (ssn119@psu.edu)
Soo Jeong Youn (svy5080@psu.edu)

Pamela Cole

Now Recruiting

We have opportunities in all projects in the Development of Emotion Regulation lab. In each study we use developmental psychology approaches to understand mental health and clinical problems. If you are interested in a project (described below), please contact Mirella Maggi at mcm5481@psu.edu

The Development of Toddlers Study (DOTS) is a longitudinal study of the early development of emotion regulation. How does children emotion regulation develop from the time they are toddlers until they are ready to begin school? We studied children from age 18 months to 5 years. In 2007 we completed data collection, when the children were 5 years old. Current teams are focused on a) understanding how parents, particularly mothers, help a young child begin to use their language and attention skills to self-regulate emotions, b) examining how children use language to self-regulate, c) observing 5 year olds cope with a disappointment, and several other subprojects involving coding video and audio records and data entry and analysis.

The Bliss & Blues of Parenting is a set of studies addressing how we measure emotion regulation in parents. With children we use nonverbal expressive behavior but adults are much better at modulating expressiveness. With several Penn State researchers, we are developing methods to study emotion regulation in parents, including use of Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) and electroenchephalography (EEG) to observe emotional responding in the context of parenting. Work in this lab includes coding micro facial expressions and working with EMA and EEG data, potentially including some data collection with mothers.

Proximal Emotional Environment of Preschoolers (PEEP) is a new project. We will examine how children’s brains process angry speech using fMRI technology. We will relate BOLD responses to speech stimuli to other aspects of a child’s development and experience. Activities in this new study include contributing to start-up and data collection, including neuroimaging.

MECCA (Mothers, Emotional Competence, and Cultural Attitudes) study is one arm of a 5 nation cross-cultural collaboration describing cultural differences in mothers’ beliefs about how they socialize their young school age child’s emotions. We examine maternal reports of their beliefs about emotional competence and the strategies they use when their children express different emotions. We are currently transcribing and coding data.

Project SIESTA, in collaboration with Dr Doug Teti and other colleagues, is just starting. It involves the study of the role of parenting in infant development of self-regulated sleep. Our lab’s contribution is examining the functional effects of infant sleep quality on the infant’s daily emotional functioning. Involvement in this project will include getting the project up and running. If you are interested in this project, please contact Doug Teti at dteti@psu.edu

Students can receive course credit (PSY 494) for 10 hours per week of work. Because of the extensive training involved, we do require a 10 hour per week time commitment. In addition, we have only taken students who can work for at least 2 semesters. Students find the extended commitment provides them with an opportunity to become well known in the lab, to get adequate advice about jobs and graduate school, and to have a substantive experience in a research lab. The lab is a supportive environment where undergraduates are encouraged to get involved in projects that interest them. We also have weekly meetings, which include discussions about theory and research related to the study, questions and comments about the work in the lab, and career counseling (resume workshop, career pathways).

Cynthia Huang-Pollock

Now recruiting

Description of Research: The Child Attention and Learning Lab is conducting research on the neuropsychological and emotional processes related to learning problems in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Research assistants acquire a host of marketable skills, including (but not limited to) training in the use of common statistical packages (e.g. SPSS, SAS) and computer programming packages (e.g. Eprime, Matlab) and the use/scoring of diagnostic behavior rating scales. Exceptional undergraduate RAs may also have the opportunity to work directly with children and their families in administering the tests of intellectual, academic achievement, and neuropsychological tests. Weekly lab meetings provide a forum to discuss theory and clinical application of the research, to address any questions that arise from work in the lab, and career guidance (e.g. applying to graduate schools, formatting vitas, how to write a competitive personal statement, and discussion of career options for psychology majors).

Method of Compensation: Undergraduate assistants may receive course credit (Psy 494) for 10 hours per week of work. Honors options for Senior Thesis research projects are available.

Requirements/Qualifications: Due to the intensive training involved, we require at least a 2 semester commitment and a minimum GPA of 3.5. Preference is given to Sophomores or Juniors with interests in pursuing graduate training in mental health.

Contact Information: Please visit our website:
http://childattention.psych.psu.edu/index.htm for more information on our work, bios of current and former RAs, and instructions on how to apply for a position in the lab.

Kenneth Levy, Ph.D.
Laboratory for Personality, Psychopathology, and Psychotherapy Research

NOW RECRUITING

Description of Research: Developmental psychopathology, attachment theory and research, mental representations, emotion regulation, personality disorders, and psychotherapy process and outcome research.

Requirements/Qualifications: I am looking for people who are bright, highly motivated, and responsible, seriously interested in pursuing doctoral level studies, and have sufficient time to commit to a project. In return I offer an opportunity to become involved in interesting studies that will provide in-depth research experience, allow you to develop your own interest within psychology, and enhance your applications to graduate school. Students must have a 3.4 GPA and be able to commit to a minimum of at least 9 hours per week during the semester and/or 15-20 hours per week during the summer, for at least two semesters. In addition, students must be able to attend a weekly lab meeting.

Method of Compensation: Research assistants will receive Research Project (PSY 294 or 494) credits or Work Study opportunities. Generally, one hour of credit is given for every three hours of work per week, although actual hours worked may vary. There are opportunities for work study if you are eligible, and paid positions are possible after a semester of participation. Honors options are available that can become PSY 496 Independent Studies or Senior Thesis Research (PSY 493). Advanced students may have the opportunity to be involved in writing of journal articles and presentations for conferences. Research assistants will also gain valuable research skills, bolster their applications for graduate and medical school programs, and have the opportunity to develop their interests within the field. They will gain knowledge about attachment theory and assessment, personality disorders, and psychotherapy research from a developmental psychopathology framework. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in preparation for doctoral studies in clinical psychology or related areas. Additionally, working on research with a faculty member gives faculty an opportunity to get to know you well enough to write an effective letter of recommendation. Finally, several students from our laboratory have received external laboratory fellowships and experiences beyond Penn State, and many students in the lab have been accepted into prestigious and competitive doctoral programs.

Contact Info: If you are interested in a position please visit the laboratory website at: http://levylab.psych.psu.edu to fill out the “Research Assistant Application Form” located in the “For Undergraduates” section. Please send your completed application to Dr. Levy at klevy@psu.edu

Amy D. Marshall, Ph.D.
Relationship Research Lab

RECRUITING FOR SPRING 2012 MALE Students only

NOTE: We are recruiting only male students at this time because male students are needed to play roles as confederates in experiments.

Description of Research: The mission of the research program being developed in the Relationship Research Lab is to focus on the examination of how posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) interacts with social information processing skills (e.g., attention to threat, recognition of emotions, couple communication patterns) to lead to relationship dysfunction and aggression. This model includes the study of interpersonal processes (e.g., reciprocal and multiplicative communication patterns), contextual factors (e.g., emotional arousal), neuroendocrinological variables (e.g., oxytocin, vasopressin), and genetic factors that may contribute to changes in information processing skills that are particularly important to the maintenance of adaptive close relationships. We will also begin a new study addressing the spillover of intimate partner violence to child abuse. Undergraduate research assistants will primarily engage in data collection and/or video coding. More specifically, RAs will run study protocols and collect data from community couples recruited based on PTSD symptomotology and intimate partner violence perpetration and undergraduate students. Research assistants will also be trained to code couples' videotaped conflict discussions, conduct recruitment interviews, search relevant literature, develop study stimuli, manage databases, and generally use your skills and creativity to assist in the development of new studies. In addition, lab meetings provide a forum to learn more about the topic under study and future opportunities in the field.

Method of Compensation: It is preferred that undergraduate research assistants earn independent research credit. Those eligible for work-study are also encouraged to apply. Research assistants will gain valuable research experience and faculty contact, especially helpful for those interested in pursuing graduate education.

Requirements/Qualifications: Highly motivated and responsible undergraduate students with an interest in clinical research are encouraged to apply. Students must have a 3.2 GPA. Preference is given to technologically competent students who are able to commit at least six hours per week to the lab (three hours of work for each hour of credit), as well as those who may be interested in continuing in the lab beyond the current semester.

Contact Information: Interested students should contact Lauren Sippel (lms455@psu.edu) for more information and to schedule an interview.

Ginger A. Moore, Ph.D.
Parent-Infant Interaction Lab

NOW RECRUITING

We need several undergraduate students to help with two studies researching bio-behavioral processes in parent-infant interaction. Our lab provides excellent opportunities for students interested in child clinical and developmental psychology and pre-medicine.

NEW FAMILIES STUDY
We are examining risk and protective factors that contribute to mothers’ and infants’ self-regulation during the postpartum period. Risk factors include depression and marital conflict. Protective factors include physical activity and exercise. We will observe mothers’, fathers’, and infants’ behavioral and physiological responses during family interactions.

Responsibilities: Assist in laboratory assessments with parents and infants. Help administer questionnaires, instruct parents in research procedures, and video-record family interactions. Interested students may also be trained to collect and edit physiology data or be trained in coding parents’ and infants’ behavior.
Requirements/Qualifications: Because of extensive training involved in this research, we require a 2 semester commitment. Good computer/video technical skills or a background in biology or physiology are desirable.
Method of Compensation: Students can receive 3 course credits (PSY 294, 494) for 10 hours per week of work or may work as volunteers.
Contact information: Micah Mammen (mam1176@psu.edu). In your email, include current year of schooling, major or academic interests, GPA, and any prior experience.EARLY GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT STUDY (EGDS)
In collaboration with Dr. Jenae Neiderhiser, we are studying interactions between adoptive parents and their infants and observing toddlers’ emotion regulation during challenging tasks. EGDS is a longitudinal adoption study researching the effects of genes, prenatal drug exposure, and parenting on child outcomes.

Responsibilities: Learn to identify parents’ and children’s behaviors during different kinds of interactions and tasks. Code parenting behavior or children's emotions and regulatory strategies from videotape using behavior observation coding software.
Requirements/Qualifications: Because of extensive training involved in this research, we require a 2 semester commitment. Detail-oriented, keen observation skills and good computer/video technical skills are desirable.
Method of Compensation: Students can receive 3 course credits (PSY 294, 494) for 10 hours per week of work or may work as volunteers.
Contact: Micah Mammen (mam1176@psu.edu). In your email, include current year of schooling, major or academic interests, GPA, and any prior experience.

Michelle G. Newman, Ph.D.
Anxiety and Emotion Research Lab

NOW RECRUITING

The Anxiety and Emotion Research Lab is conducting research investigating the comorbidity between anxiety and depression. We are conducting a comprehensive review to establish the unique components of anxious and depressive disorders. Additionally, we are also interested in conducting an ecological momentary assessment study to examine the relationship between short-term anxiety and depression using smartphones. We are currently seeking several research assistants for Summer and Fall of 2011 and Spring 2012 to help with studies investigating the comorbidity between anxiety and depression. Undergraduate research assistants may be trained to select relevant literature for a systematic review, conduct data collection sessions, and maintain databases. Studies are conducted in the Center for the Treatment of Anxiety and Depression.

Method of Compensation
Undergraduate research assistants can participate on a volunteer basis, although preference is given to those interested in earning Research Project (PSY 494) credits. Research assistants will gain valuable research experience and faculty contact, especially helpful for those interested in pursuing graduate education. Research assistants will also learn about the overlap and distinction between anxiety and depression. Moreover, research assistance will develop their current research skills, which are very important in a graduate application process (especially among research intensive or PhD programs). Undergraduates may learn from graduate students about the graduate application process and will be assisted in the process of building and attaining experiences to further build their qualifications for graduate school.

Requirements/Qualifications: Highly motivated and responsible undergraduate students with an interest in clinical research are encouraged to apply. Students must have a 3.2 GPA. Preference is given to technologically competent students who are able to commit at least nine hours per week to the lab (three hours of work for each hour of credit), as well as those who may be interested in continuing in the lab beyond the current semester.

Contact Information: Interested students should contact Nick Jacobson (ncj2@psu.edu) for more information and to schedule an interview.

Aaron Pincus, Ph.D.

Recruiting for Spring 2011

Contact information:
Aaron Pincus: alp6@psu.edu, 863-1723
Description of Research: Research conducted in the personality psychology laboratory broadly applies personality theory and personality assessment methods to issues in clinical psychology. Current work focuses on:
A) Longitudinal investigations of intraindividual variability in interpersonal behavior and emotion, as well as person-situation integration as it applies to normal personality, personality disorders, psychopathology, physical health, and emotional well-being.
B) Pathological narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Conceptualization, etiology, assessment, and treatment.
C) Interpersonal assessment and research employing the Interpersonal Circumplex
We are currently seeking several research assistants for Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 to help with a variety of research projects including our NIA funded longitudinal study of personality, interpersonal behavior, emotion, health and aging. Students will learn about personality, psychopathology, longitudinal measurement, and daily diary methodologies.
Methods of Compensation: Research assistants will receive Research Project (PSY 294/494) credits. Generally, one hour of credit is given for every three hours of work per week, although actual hours worked may vary. Workstudy positions are available for qualified students.
Requirements/Qualifications: Motivated, conscientious, and responsible students in their junior, sophomore, or freshman years (sorry, no seniors) with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Interest in personality and quantitative methods preferred. A minimum time commitment of at least 9 hours per week for at least two semesters is required. Students must be able to conduct research sessions in the early evening hours and attend a weekly lab meeting. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in learning more about personality, clinical psychology, and quantitative methods in preparation for graduate school.

José A. Soto
615 Moore Building
josesoto@psu.edu

Contact Information: Please send an email to sotolab@gmail.com to request an application or for additional information. You may also complete the application here.

Description of Research Project: Members of our lab will study how, why and under what circumstances culture exerts an influence on the emotion system. We will study emotion using various methods including self-report, coding of behavioral data, and collection of psychophysiological data. We will also study different aspects of the emotion system such as emotional reactivity or expressivity, emotion regulation, empathic understanding of other’s emotions, and emotion language. Finally, we will study how the interaction of culture with these processes affects the psychological and physical well being of the individual.

Compensation: Research assistants can work on a volunteer basis or can earn independent research credit (PSY 494). Those eligible for work-study may be paid for their work. Research assistants will also gain valuable research experience for those interested in pursuing graduate school.

Qualifications: We are looking for motivated, detail-oriented undergraduates. Duties may include any or all of the following: attend weekly lab meetings, develop stimulus materials, conduct literature searches, assist with study implementation, train to use psychophysiological equipment, run subjects through psychophysiological protocol, and enter data. Students with computer savvy and a love for technology are especially encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to students who can work 2 consecutive semesters for at least 6 hours/week.

Smoking Research Lab
Stephen Wilson

Description of Research: The lab studies addictive behavior, focusing in particular on cigarette smoking. Most studies examine factors that make it hard for people to quit smoking, such as the craving that smokers experience when they see things that remind them of cigarettes. We also have lines of research examining other behaviors that have significant health implications, including alcohol use and maladaptive eating patterns. Many of our studies involve the use of both behavior (e.g., questionnaires) and brain imaging (functional magnetic resonance imaging) methods.

Requirements/Qualifications: I am looking for people who are bright, highly motivated, very responsible, independent, and strongly interested in attending graduate school. Research assistants must have sufficient time to commit to a project. Duties for research assistants may include any or all of the following: recruiting and screening potential study participants (via telephone and in person), developing stimulus materials, conducting literature searches, and collecting and analyzing data. Students must have a 3.4 GPA and be able to commit to a minimum of at least 9 hours per week during the semester and/or 15-20 hours per week during the summer, for at least two semesters. In addition, students must be able to attend a weekly lab meeting.

Method of Compensation: Research assistants can work on a volunteer basis or can earn independent research credit (PSY 494). Those eligible for work-study may be paid for their work. Possibilities will exist to enroll in PSY 496 Independent Studies or Senior Thesis Research in future semesters. Research assistants will also gain valuable research experience for those interested in pursuing graduate school. Research in the lab is particularly relevant for those considering graduate work in clinical psychology, health psychology, and/or neuroscience.

Contact Information: If you are interested in a position please visit the laboratory website at http://wilsonlab.psych.psu.edu/application.html to fill out an application form. Generally, eligible candidates will be asked to meet with Dr. Wilson and/or graduate students in the lab for a brief interview. Feel free to contact Dr. Wilson (sjw42@psu.edu) with any questions.

COGNITIVE

Frederick M. Brown
863-1716, f3b@psu.edu

Rich Carlson
613 Moore, racarlson@psu.edu

SORRY, FULL FOR SPRING 2012

Description of Research: My research is concerned with conscious control and cognitive skill. Our focus is on the nature of errors in routine skills, and on factors that affect the ability to monitor performance and detect those errors. Students assist in collecting data and in designing and planning experiments, and participate in a weekly lab meeting.

Requirements: No prior experience necessary; I'm happy to hear from curious and responsible students with interests in any area of psychology. I am looking for dependable assistants interested in learning about cognitive research.

Method of Compensation: Either PSYCH 494 credit or work-study positions are possible.

Contact information: Please email me, racarlson@psu.edu, to set up a meeting.

Nancy Dennis
nad12@psu.edu

NOW RECRUITING

NOW RECRUITING
Description of Research: The Cognitive Aging & Neuroimaging (CAN) Lab focuses on the study of learning and memory in both young and older adults. We employ both behavioral and neuroimaging methods, including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and functional MRI (fMRI) to explore the interaction of cognitive and neural processes involved in true memories, false memories, and relational memories. With respect to cognitive aging, our research concentrates on the examination of age-related neural markers of cognitive decline, as well as mechanisms for neural compensation. Other lines of research include both implicit learning and genetic neuroimaging.

Description of Position: 2-3 positions available. Undergraduate students in the laboratory will help with general lab organization, participant recruitment, designing and planning experiments, data collection and analysis, and participate in a weekly lab meeting. Great experience if you are considering graduate school in psychology or neuroscience.

Requirements: Rising Sophomores or Juniors preferred – at least 9 hours per week during the semester – preference will be given to those students who can commit for multiple semesters. General computer skills necessary. For at least 1 position we are looking for an individual with knowledge of web design knowledge and/or MATLAB. Students may receive PSY 494 research project credits or work study funds. Possibilities exist to enroll in Psych 496 Independent Studies or Senior Thesis Research in future semesters.

If interested please email Dr. Nancy Dennis. Please include your year of schooling, your academic interests, GPA, relevant classes taken, times you are available to work, computer skills, career goals.

Rick Gilmore
Email: rogilmore@psu.edu
Phone: 865-3664

NOW RECRUITING

Research Description: The Gilmore lab focuses on basic questions in visual and cognitive neuroscience. The goal is to understand the development of perception, cognition, and action from infancy to adulthood using behavioral, computational, and neuroimaging techniques. The lab focuses on studies of normal development, and with colleagues at Hershey, development in children with visual or neurological disorders. A special focus in recent years has been on using steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) to measure patterns of brain activity in response to complex patterns of motion.

Method of Compensation: Students may receive PSY 494 research project credits or work study funds.

Requirements/Qualifications: Highly motivated undergraduates with strong science, math, or computer backgrounds and at least 6 hours per week (typically in the mornings) to devote to research are encouraged to apply. The ability to work with participants in a lab setting is necessary, as electrode placement on participants will be performed. A commitment of at least one year (two consecutive semesters) is required. To apply, complete the on-line application: http://babylab.psych.psu.edu/RA.app.html

Judith Kroll - Cognition and Language Lab: Bilingualism and second language learning

4D Thomas, jfk7@psu.edu

Our lab conducts research on the cognitive and neural processes that support the acquisition and proficient use of a second language. We are looking for a few enthusiastic undergraduates who would like to work in the lab with us on new and ongoing projects. Our research investigates how bilingual speakers manage to speak words in one language at a time, how adult learners of a second language acquire new vocabulary, and what information is available when proficient bilinguals read and plan speech in one or both of their two languages. We examine both behavior and brain activity when bilinguals are planning to speak or read sentences in one or both of their two languages.

There is no requirement to speak a second language yourself, just to be interested in gaining research skills and in being part of an interactive lab group. Independent study (Psychology 494 or Linguistics 496) and work study positions are available for undergraduate students who are eligible. Note that the only positions for pay are for undergraduates with work study awards. Our lab is located in the basement of the Thomas Building. We are associated with the Center for Language Science (CLS) and there are many opportunities for research for students interested in particular languages (e.g., Spanish, German, Chinese, American Sign Language), in particular research topics (language learning, language production, reading, cognitive control), and in learning to use a range of behavioral and neurocognitive methods, including Event Related Potentials. See http://www.cls.psu.edu for additional detail.

Note that we are also associated with the PIRE project that provides opportunities for undergraduate research abroad for the Summer, 2012. See the PIRE website for information on eligibility (http://www.cls.psu.edu/PIRE).

Please feel free to contact any of us by e-mail for more information:
Lab Director Judith Kroll: jfk7@psu.edu

Graduate Students:

Cari Bogulski: cari.bogulski@gmail.com
Jason Gullifer: jwg20@psu.edu (Dussias/Kroll Labs)
Rhonda McClain: rhondam1@gmail.com
Juliana Peters: julianakpeters@gmail.com

Postdoctoral Fellow:
Dr. Eleanora Rossi: eleonoraros@gmail.com (Dussias/Kroll Labs)

Research Coordinators:
Robert Marker: robertjmarker@gmail.com
Peiyao Chen: addisoncpy@gmail.com

Frank Ritter
316G IST B, 865-4453, frank.ritter@psu.edu

Students can run usability experiments. Those who can program can help build cognitive models or HCI interfaces. Either independent study or work-study positions are possible. Students with programming experience are preferred. Please call or email to set up an appointment in the afternoon (Wednesday is best) for details. Previous projects include, besides the above, related work with video editing, eye-tracking, interface building, and web site design. We can also run a learning experiment to validate a model of learning.

David Rosenbaum
642 Moore, 863-1991, dar12@psu.edu

Our lab is concerned with the psychological substrates of skilled (and not such skilled) performance. We do research on topics relevant to human factors, performance arts, athletics, and medicine (physical and occupational therapy and diagnosis of perceptual-motor disorders). Our current projects pertain to action control. We use video and computer technology, including a modest virtual-reality setup for recording movement patterns of the hands and arms. Many students who have worked in the lab have chosen to stay on for several semesters. We try to have fun while also doing (or trying to do) top-notch research. No prior experience is necessary because the point of all this is to help you get experience. We are looking for students who are curious, responsible, and seeking opportunities. Independent study and work-study positions are available. Please don't hesitate to contact me. The lab is located in 351 Moore.

For more information, go to http://www.personal.psu.edu/faculty/d/a/dar12/

Janet van Hell
619 Moore building, jgv3@psu.edu

NOW RECRUITING

Description of Research. The Language Development Lab is a new lab in the Psychology and Linguistics Departments, and focuses on language development at middle childhood and beyond. Topics we study include: how child speakers of different languages learn to use more complex grammatical structures;cognitive processes related to second language learning and second language processing in children and adults; how second and native language knowledge interacts in language perception and production, in beginning and proficient bilinguals. We use experimental, neurocognitive (ERPs), and linguistic research techniques.

The director of the Language Development Lab, Dr. Janet van Hell, is affiliated with Penn State and the Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands (http://www.ru.nl/bsi). We closely collaborate with Dr. Kroll’s lab, andare associated with the Center for Language Science (CLS; http://www.lsrg.psu.edu). There are many opportunities for research for students interested in particular languages (e.g., Spanish, German, Chinese, American Sign Language), but you don’t have to speak a second language yourself. We seek students who are curious, enthusiastic, and responsible, and who seek training in experimental and neurocognitive research related to language processing.

Method of compensation: Independent study (Psychology 494 or Linguistics 496) or work study positions are available for undergraduate students who are eligible.

Dan Weiss
Comparative Communication Laboratory

Description of research: The goal of my lab is to use a comparative approach to the study of cognition and communication. To that end, we study 3 populations: human infants, human adults, and cotton-top tamarin monkeys. All of the research is behavioral (nothing invasive). I'm particularly interested in language and the early mechanisms underlying language acquisition. Recently, I've also begun some research in motor planning as well. For more details, visit my website at http://psych.la.psu.edu/weisslab/ . I'm interested in recruiting enthusiastic, conscientious, responsible, and bright students who are interested in assisting in the human and/or monkey research.

Method of compensation: Independent study and work study positions are available for undergraduate students who are eligible.

Requirements/Qualifications: Because of the nature of and training required for this type research, students should have a minimum overall GPA of 3.2 and be able to make a commitment of 2 semesters. Students should plan to spend 9 hours per week involved in lab-related activities, although the actual hours may be higher or lower in any given week.

Contact me at djw21@psu.edu if you are interested.

DEVELOPMENTAL

Keith Nelson
Language Pathways Lab

NOW RECRUITING FOR SUMMER 2011 and FALL 2011

Description of Research: Our lab is interested in understanding how cognition, emotion and motivation are intertwined in children’s learning. Current and past research projects investigate how different cognitive learner profiles predict various language learning trajectories, and how highly specific and experimentally controlled learning conditions are causally associated with language acquisition gains by both language-delayed (including SLI & Autistic populations) and language-typical children. Research assistant roles may involve designing and planning experiments, preparation of materials and stimuli for language studies, and data collection with young children and adults.

Method of Compensation: Research assistants will receive Research Project credits (PSY 494). Generally, one credit is given for every 3 to 4 hrs of work per week, although actual hrs worked may vary. You will gain knowledge about language development and language assessment, as well as valuable research skills. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in learning more about language science with both typical and disordered populations, and preparing a solid research base for graduate study.

Requirements/ Qualifications: We are looking for highly motivated undergraduates preferably with some background in Developmental Psychology and/or Cognitive Development. We prefer students who can devote about 10 to 11 hours weekly to the lab (3 credits) and who can commit to at least two semesters, although exceptions are sometimes made with respect to both. For an upcoming project with Spanish learners, we also looking for student-researchers who have some basic proficiency in Spanish.

Contact Information: If you are interested in getting involved in our lab, please contact Kiren Khan (kxk953@psu.edu).

Sheri Berenbaum

Alysia Y. Blandon, Ph.D.
Family & Child Development Lab

NOW RECRUITING FOR FALL 2011 and SPRING 2012

Description of Research: We are looking for motivated and enthusiastic undergraduate students to join the Family and Child Development Lab (http://familydev.psych.psu.edu). We are currently collecting data for the STARS study, which examines family processes and young children’s early social and emotional development.

Research Assistants will assist with recruiting families, data collection when families come to the lab, data management, and coding (e.g., emotions/behaviors, characteristics of relationship quality). New coding projects starting this fall include: young children’s prosocial behavior, father’s parenting strategies, parental control strategies, children’s compliance, and coparenting. Other lab tasks may be assigned as needed.

Dr. Blandon’s research focuses on family process and the interaction across multiple family subsystems (e.g., marital, coparenting, parenting, & sibling relationships) and the factors that influence children’s emerging self-regulation capabilities and their social and emotional development. A particular focus is placed on specifying the developmental trajectories of children’s self-regulation across multiple levels including physiological, behavioral, and emotional processes.

Requirements/Qualifications: Students must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.2 and commit to work for at least 2 consecutive semesters (10 hours/week). Previous or current enrollment in developmental courses is preferred. Research assistants will receive credit for PSYCH 494. Students eligible for work-study may also be hired for pay.

Contact Information: Interested students should contact email (fcdlab@gmail.com) or visit http://familydev.psych.psu.edu/students.html to get an application.

Kristin Buss
Emotion Development Lab

NOW RECRUITING FOR SPRING 2011

Description of Research: Research interests in the lab involve developmental
affective neuroscience, individual differences in emotional reactivity,
regulation, and temperament, the dynamics of behavioral and biological
expression of emotion, and the effects of context on emotional behavior and
physiological reactivity during the toddler and Kindergarten years. The
current longitudinal project is designed to explore the roles of temperament
in social-emotional development and contains elements that probe maternal
awareness and parental influence during toddler development.

We first saw our toddlers and their mothers at the Child Study Center when they were 2-years-old. This coming fall, we will be inviting the first wave of our participating families in for a series of lab visits as their children enter Kindergarten, three years after their first visit. Undergraduate research assistants will be involved in assisting families during visits to the Child Study Center, aiding in data collection and preparing materials for these visits. Research assistants will also be trained to discriminate affective behaviors, code and enter data.

Method of Compensation: Research assistants may apply for PSY 494 course
credit or on a volunteer basis. Students eligible for work-study may be able
to work in the lab for compensation after having worked in the lab for at
least one semester. Participation provides a valuable experience and
reference base for those considering graduate studies.

Requirements/Qualifications: Because of the nature and training involved
with the study, we ask for a minimum overall GPA of 3.3 and a minimum
commitment of at least 2 semesters (although the majority of our undergraduates stay on the project longer than the minimum requirement).
Students should plan to spend 10 hours per week involved in lab-related
activities, including a weekly lab/coding meeting which research assistants are required to attend.

Contact Information: To apply or for more information, please contact Jeremy
Armstrong at jpa140@psu.edu or tikes@psu.edu. Interested students may also
visit our website at http://emotiondev.psych.psu.edu/research/.

Rick Gilmore
Email: rogilmore@psu.edu
Phone: 865-3664

NOW RECRUITING

Method of Compensation: Students may receive PSY 494 research project credits or work study funds.

Lynn Liben
450 Moore Building, 863-1718, liben@psu.edu

Description of Current Research
The projects in our lab concern basic research on cognitive and social development, and on how findings from this work apply to education. We cover infancy through young adulthood.

One of our main questions is how parents' interactions with their children may differ by gender (parents' and children's) and by cultural-ethnic group, and in how such interactions may affect both social and cognitive outcomes (e.g., gender development & identity; attitudes about racism and sexism; skills, interests, and achievement in math and science).

Illustrative projects include (a) studying parents and children who attended a museum exhibit on maps; (b) studying mother-child interactions in a lab setting as they play with blocks, read books, and do other activities (families are African American, Mexican American, Dominican American, and Chinese-American) and (c) exploring how parents talk to their children about racism and sexism in a lab setting. Students typically help to code parent and child behaviors from video recordings and often help in collecting data.
In other research we study how children and adults use maps to get around and learn about the environment, and how maps are understood and used in studying various environment-relevant sciences (e.g., geography, geology). Students typically collect data from college students and sometimes from children, and they all help to develop and implement data coding systems.

Requirements/Qualifications. We prefer students who can devote about 10 hours weekly to the lab (3 credits) and who can commit to at least two semesters, although exceptions are sometimes made with respect to both. We also prefer students who have had a course or practical experiences related to developmental psychology (e.g., PSY 212; babysitting experience) and evidence high levels of responsibility and enthusiasm. Students may be involved through Independent Study (PSY 494) or Work Study, either of which provides excellent experience for graduate school or professional work with children and adolescents. For our work with families from different backgrounds, we also need students who can understand basic Spanish or Chinese (Manderin & Cantonese).

Contact/Application Information. If you would like to learn more about the lab and get an application, please visit http://psych.la.psu.edu/LibenCSDlab/. You will find an application under the "For Students" tab. Or request an application form from Kathleen Ghio (kxg25@psu.edu).

Jenae Neiderhiser
jenaemn@psu.edu

Now Recruiting

Gene-Environment Interplay Throughout the Lifespan
Description of Research: Our lab is interested in understanding the interplay between genes and the environment in development. We are currently looking for undergraduates to work with us on one two different projects:
Early Growth and Development Study (EGDS):
EGDS is a longitudinal adoption study interested in disentangling the effects of genes, prenatal drug exposure, and parenting on child outcomes and family adjustment. Opportunities for undergraduate research assistants include:

Reviewing and coding medical records (prenatal and delivery) of birth mothers enrolled in the study.
Conducting telephone interviews with birth and adoptive parents.
Work on a subproject of the study specifically concerned with families involved in a transracial adoption.
Coding parent-child interactions and children's emotions and regulatory strategies from videotape using a sophisticated computer program. Coders would learn about gene-environment interplay, young children, observation of behavior, emotion regulation development, and video techniques.
Helping with technical issues, especially with video software (responsibilities would include assisting with video editing, chapterizing, and CD/DVD burning, and problem-solving when errors in the video editing occur). Experience with Roxio and/or AVS Conversion software is a plus, but not necessary.
Other varied opportunities for data management/analysis, video editing, and literature reviews.

Twin and Offspring Study in Sweden
The Twin and Offspring Study in Sweden (TOSS) is a study of adult twins and their families. TOSS was designed to address questions concerning the genetic and environmental influences on mental health and parenting for parents of adolescents. It is also interested in learning about other adult twin family relationships and the impact of family relationships upon the adjustment of middle-aged adults. Opportunities for undergraduate RAs include:

Completing literature reviews & creating annotated bibliographies
Management of publications

Method of Compensation: Research assistants may work on a volunteer basis or receive credit for PSY 294 or 494. Students eligible for work-study may also be hired for pay. Our lab provides an excellent opportunity for students interested in developmental or clinical psychology, human development, biology, or medicine.
If interested, please contact Jenae Neiderhiser (jenaemn@psu.edu) or Allison Mitchell (alm477@psu.edu)

Minimum qualifications: We are looking for undergraduate students (with a minimum GPA of 3.0) to work at least 10 hours per week. A commitment of 2 semesters is required.

Koraly Perez-Edgar, Ph.D. (Developmental) Research Credit opportunity available

Cognition, Affect and Temperament Lab (Child Study Center)

Work Description: The CAT Lab is currently looking for responsible undergraduate students to assist with our research. We offer opportunities to work with child and adult participants, enter and analyze data, and assist in participant recruitment. You will experience the use of neuroimaging technology as well as cognitive assessments and clinical techniques.
Project: In addition to behavioral observations, we are using the Electroencephalogram systems through the Human Electrophysiology Facility (HEF), and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging data using the fMRI scanner at the Social, Life, and Engineering Sciences Imaging Center (SLEIC). Our research also includes DNA investigation into possible biological markers for anxiety in Behaviorally Inhibited individuals. This multi-method approach allows strong investigation and support for empirical work.
Requirements/Benefits: Applicants are required to have a minimum GPA: 3.33, and are asked to maintain a minimum 2 semester commitment to the Lab. Being a Research Assistant will qualify you for Psych 294 or Psych 494 Course Credit.
Contact Lab Staff: catlabpsu@gmail.com|814.865.3181|catlab.la.psu.edu

INDUSTRIAL/ORGANIZATIONAL

Leadership and Innovation Lab
Dr. Sam Hunter

The Leadership and Innovation Lab is supervised by Dr. Sam Hunter. Our leadership research focuses on negative leader behaviors such as mistakes and abusive leadership, while our innovation research includes topics such as climate and team innovation management. Recent projects include several lab studies, observations of engineering teams, and historiometric analysis.
We typically have 10-15 undergraduates in the lab that work closely in teams.

Students have a variety of responsibilities including running research studies, coding participant responses, and actively contributing ideas for projects in the development stage. We really value input from our undergraduate research assistants and have high expectations for their active involvement in our research. All lab students meet once a week at a time that is determined based on everyone's schedules at the beginning of each semester. Each fall, students submit a draft of their vita and personal statements to receive feedback before applying to graduate school. We also discuss topics such as GRE's, the graduate school application process, and general advice for grad school and first jobs.

We take applications for fall, spring, and summer work. For more information about our previous projects, testimonials from previous lab students, and to download an application form, please visit our website: www.hunter.psu.edu

SOCIAL

Reg Adams
Social Vision and Interpersonal Perception Lab

NOW RECRUITING

Contact information: Please contact Dr. Reginald Adams (radams@psu.edu) for more information.

Description of research project: Our lab focuses on the study of social vision. More of the human brain is dedicated to visual processes than all other sensory modalities combined. This anatomical fact reflects in large part the central importance vision plays in both establishing and navigating us through our social worlds. In our work we recognize the interplay of visual and social processes both in terms those which are innately prepared and those which have emerged as the product of individual variation and cultural learning. Our focus is on the study of Compound Social Cues. More specifically, we study how social and emotional meaning is extracted from the human face given the multiple social messages it conveys (e.g., emotion, gender, race etc.). We utilize behavioral, neuroscientific, and cross-cultural methods to accomplish this work. We are currently seeking RAs who are interested in helping examine: 1) the language of the eyes, 2) ingroup/outgroup influences in social perception, and 3) human attraction. Our goal is for RAs to experience all phases of the research process from idea generation to stimulus and program preparation, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation. All interested students are encouraged to apply.

Compensation: Students will earn 3 hours of course credit by enrolling in Psych 494 (independent study). Working in a research lab is invaluable to those seeking to pursue graduate work in research psychology. Gaining early experience in a lab is also helpful for those who anticipate doing an honors thesis.

Requirements/Qualifications: We are looking for motivated, reliable, detail-oriented students with a strong work ethic and creative instinct.

Karen Gasper
437 Moore, kxg20@psu.edu

Description of Research Project : Our lab is searching for a couple of motivated students who are interested in learning about how moods and emotions influence everyday activities. Some questions under investigation will be:

How do people differ in their understanding of emotional experiences? Are some individuals more aware of their experiences than others?
How do feelings influence judgment? For instance, do sad individuals always view the world more negatively than those who are happy? Under what circumstances does this change?
How do our feelings influence information processing? For instance, are happy individuals more creative than sad individuals?

You will gain some valuable experience in using appropriate scientific methods, in running and conducting experimental sessions, and in analyzing and interpreting data.

Method of compensation: Independent Study Opportunity.

Requirements/Qualifications: Knowledge of computers would be a plus, but it is not required. We are looking for responsible, creative, and articulate people with an interest in psychology. For more information and an application form, please go to:
http://www.personal.psu.edu/faculty/k/x/kxg20/lab/lab.html

Stephanie Shields
514 Moore Building, sashields@psu.edu

Contact information: Please contact Stephanie Shields (sashields@psu.edu), Jean Lamont (jml539@psu.edu) or Matthew Zawadzki (mjz172@psu.edu) if you are interested.
Description of research project: Our lab focuses on the intersection between gender and emotion, especially as relevant to interpersonal settings. We draw from the psychology of emotion, the psychology of gender, and feminist psychology. We are currently conducting a range of studies on evaluations of others’ emotions and emotion displays, evaluations of our own emotions, the self-reported physiological aspects of emotions and how these self-reports relate to emotion scripts dictating how one should feel, and the effect of nonverbal behaviors, such as touch, on interpersonal interactions. The aim of this research is to learn more about when, why, and how emotion is felt and perceived in everyday situations, especially between individuals of differing power, and how these perceptions of emotion can change one’s judgment of competency and legitimacy. Please see our lab web page for more information: http://psych.la.psu.edu/shields/index.html.
In addition, we are working on an intervention to help raise people's awareness of how bias affects women in the workplace. Information about the project can be found at http://wages.la.psu.edu/.
Our undergrad RAs are involved in all phases of the research process. Undergraduate roles include attending regular lab meetings, data collection, entry, and checking, developing stimulus materials, conducting literature searches, assisting us with individual projects, and providing their own creative voices throughout this process!

Method of compensation: Students can earn course credit by registering for independent study research (PSY 494). This is a great way to gain research experience for people interested in the psychology of emotion and gender.
Requirements/Qualifications: We are looking for 4 or 5 motivated, reliable, and detail-oriented undergraduates who are willing to work 6 to 9 hours a week. Most of our RAs continue to work with us for two or more semesters.

Janet K. Swim
515 Moore Building
jks4@psu.edu

NOW RECRUITING FOR SPRING 2011

Contact Information: Please contact Brittany Bloodhart at bpb155@psu.edu for an application.
Description of Research Project: Janet Swim is currently working on research related to conservation psychology. She is examining individual and situational features that constrain and facilitate individual’s tendency to engage in behaviors that mitigate global climate change. Her field studies on this topic will be examining programs to encourage behavioral change in students living in the resident halls and church members in local churches.
Compensation: Research assistants receive course credit (PSYCH 494) that may count towards the 400 level credit requirements for psychology majors. Additionally, working in our lab will provide you with valuable experience in conducting research, which is excellent preparation for graduate school.
Qualifications: We are looking for motivated, detail oriented students who can give thoughtful feedback on experimentation. Our research assistants typically learn how to: be experimenters, enter and code data, and manage both the subject pool, and online surveys. While we will not turn anyone away on the based on background, males and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply. Lastly, we strongly encourage students to apply if they are able to work 9 hours/week.

Theresa Vescio
416 Moore Building
tkv1@psu.edu

NOW RECRUITING for Spring 2011

Contact Information: Please contact Jessica Cundiff (jlc563@psu.edu) for an application or additional information.

Description of Research Project: As a member of our lab, you will be working on projects that attempt to answer the following questions:

How do cues in the environment negatively influence members of underrepresented groups (e.g., women, ethnic minorities) in science and math domains?
How do people perform when threatened with negative stereotypes of their in-groups (for example, women in mathematics)?
How do psychological mechanisms such as stereotypes contribute to the maintenance of the status quo?
When do people accept versus challenge the status quo?
What makes men feel that their masculinity has been threatened and how do they react?
Do high-powered women behave in specific ways to make themselves less threatening to high-powered men?
How do perceptions of high-powered people differ based on their sex?
What factors influence people’s endorsement of the use of technological interventions during childbirth?

Compensation: Research assistants can earn course credit by enrolling in Psych 494 (independent study). Work-study may also be available on a limited basis. Working in our lab provides valuable experience in conducting research, which is excellent preparation for graduate school. This lab is also a great opportunity for Honors Thesis work for students who are engaged in research for multiple semesters.

Qualifications: We are looking for creative, motivated, and detail-oriented undergraduates with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students with computer programming skills (e.g., AuthorWare, E-prime) are especially encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to students who can work 2 consecutive semesters for at least 6 hours/week, but all are encouraged to apply. Research assistants will be asked to attend weekly lab meetings, collect and enter data, develop stimulus materials, conduct literature searches, and provide thoughtful feedback on planned studies.

Research Opportunities - Last updated 1-27-12

Non-department opportunities (good experience, elective credit available)

Smoking Research Lab
Stephen Wilson

Judith Kroll - Cognition and Language Lab: Bilingualism and second language learning

NOW RECRUITING FOR FALL 2011 and SPRING 2012

Quick Links

Research Opportunities - Last updated 1-27-12

Non-department opportunities (good experience, elective credit available)

Smoking Research Lab Stephen Wilson

Judith Kroll - Cognition and Language Lab: Bilingualism and second language learning

NOW RECRUITING FOR FALL 2011 and SPRING 2012

Quick Links

Smoking Research Lab
Stephen Wilson