Interested in joing the MAS Research Lab?

What kind of research does the MAS Lab conduct?

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We investigate motivation, identity, and learning in higher education. Our projects range from developing and testing motivational interventions to examining how students' identities (e.g., race, social class, gender, generation status, and reader identity) shape their educational experiences. We also conduct Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) research that bridges theory and classroom practice. Students in the lab may work on survey development, data collection, statistical analysis, literature reviews, manuscript writing, or helping with intervention studies.

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What will I gain from working in the MAS Lab?
You'll develop research skills, including study design, data collection, and analysis (using SPSS, R, or other statistical software), academic writing, and presentation skills. You'll also gain a deeper understanding of educational psychology research and have opportunities to present at conferences and potentially co-author publications. Most importantly, you'll be part of a collaborative team investigating questions that matter for student success.

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Do I need prior research experience?
No! We welcome students at all levels, from those just getting started in research to those with prior experience. We'll provide training and mentorship to help you develop the skills you need.

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What kind of time commitment is expected?
We typically ask for 6-10 hours per week during the semester. The exact commitment depends on the nature of your assistantship, your role, and the project phase. 

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Is this paid, for credit, or volunteer?
Opportunities vary by semester and the availability of funding. For undergraduates, options may include research for course credit (PSYC 4400), paid positions when funding is available, or volunteer experience. Graduate students may have opportunities for paid research assistantships or collaborative research projects that support their own graduate work. We'll discuss what works best for your situation.

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What skills or background do I need?
A strong interest in educational psychology, motivation, or related topics and desire to enter graduate are most important. Helpful (but not required) skills include: coursework in research methods or statistics, attention to detail, strong writing skills, and comfort with technology. For advanced roles, experience with statistical software (SPSS, R) is valuable.

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I'm interested in graduate school—is this lab a good fit?
Yes! Working in the lab provides excellent preparation for graduate programs in educational psychology, developmental psychology, or related fields. You'll gain hands-on research experience, develop your CV, and receive mentorship on the graduate school application process.

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Can I join if I'm not a psychology major?
Absolutely! We welcome students from any major who are interested in education, motivation, or related topics. Diverse perspectives strengthen our research.

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Can graduate students from other departments join the lab?
Absolutely! We welcome graduate students from education, social work, and other related fields. Our interdisciplinary research benefits from diverse perspectives and expertise. Graduate students may take on more advanced research roles, collaborate on publications, integrate lab work with their own research interests and projects, play a research coordinator role, and supervise undergraduate research assistants. 

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How do I apply to join the lab?

Complete the appropriate application form (undergraduate or graduate) linked on this page.

We typically recruit at the beginning of each semester, but feel free to complete the form anytime to express interest.

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Undergraduate MAS Research Lab Interest From – Fill out form

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Graduate MAS Research Lab Interest From (2) – Fill out form

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