Postdoctoral Associate Researcher - Taylor Lab

Postdoctoral Researcher Dr. Valerie Jones Taylor (PI, Stereotyping and Social Interactions Virtual Reality ( SSI-VR) Lab) is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Researcher to join the research team between June and August 2024. The Postdoctoral Researcher will contribute to empirical research in the lab, focusing on how social identity threat affects people's interracial interactions, performance, and perception and evaluation of others. Likewise, they will also contribute to SSI-VR Lab projects that examine ways to reduce social identity threat to improve cross-race interactions, performance, and social justice/collective action using traditional research methodologies and virtual reality (VR). Recent lab projects also examine how VR can be used as an antiracism tool. Mentorship will be tailored to an individual's research and professional interests. For more information about the lab, please visit our website: https://ssivrlab.wixsite.com/ssivrlab. The Postdoctoral Researcher will support the PI (Dr. Valerie Jones Taylor) in work related to VR interracial interactions in STEM and social contexts ( NSF funded).

Responsibilities include designing and conducting experimental work, conducting data analyses, and working on activities including background research and literature reviews, mixed-methods research designs (including using VR technology), data collection and analyses, and writing papers, reports, and dissemination pieces. The Postdoctoral Researcher will also assist the Lab Manager in coordinating the general progress of SSI-VR Lab research activities. Eligibility * Successful candidates will have demonstrable skills in advancing psychological research from conceptualization to publication.

This is a full-time 2-year appointment. The position is salaried, includes benefits, and up to $1000 for relocation (if applicable). Should I Apply?! Studies show that women, persons of color, and persons from other less socially privileged backgrounds are less likely to apply for positions unless they meet every one of the qualifications listed. You are encouraged you to apply if (1) you believe that you have the skills for this position, (2) meet some of the criteria outlined above, and (3) you are passionate about social psychology and studying intergroup interactions (e.g., interracial interactions, intergendered interactions) within the social sciences.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Psychology or a related field with significant training in quantitative, experimental social psychology. If the Ph.D. is incomplete, candidates must complete their dissertation, with graduation expected by the end of Summer 2024.

NA

Candidates should also be able to demonstrate: the ability to work collaboratively and independently, openness to interdisciplinary projects and collaborations, and strong analytical, written, oral communication, and organizational skills. Social and clinical psychology knowledge/expertise preferred. Coding skills (e.g., python, C#, Java, experience with Unity platforms, and/or the willingness to learn) desired.

NA

NA

How To Apply: To apply, please send a cover letter, CV, 2 samples of written work, and contact information of 3 references to Dr. Valerie Jones Taylor at vj.taylor@rutgers.edu. Please use the subject line: SSI-VR Lab Postdoc Inquiry. The position will be open until filled. All candidates will be considered immediately upon receipt of materials.

Applicants selected for an interview will be asked to provide three letters of reference.

The Hurst Lab is on the Busch Campus of Rutgers University in suburban Piscataway, NJ, on the Northeast Corridor, with commuting access to New York City, Princeton, and Philadelphia.