This is a call for applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in the Morality, Emotion, and Social Hierarchy Lab directed by Dr. Paul Piff, in the Department of Psychological Science at UC Irvine. The ideal start date is between May and June of 2025 (with some flexibility) and will be one year in duration, with an option to renew for a second year. The post-doctoral scholar’s primary responsibility will be conducting empirical research. Although there is a degree of flexibility in what research is pursued, generally, the scholar’s focus will be how experiences––with an emphasis on those involving awe, but also positive emotions more generally, in nature, and while engaging in leisure––shape individual and social processes, including morality, well-being, and collective action.

Applicants should have an interest or background in at least one of these research areas: Emotion (especially prosocial emotions, like awe or compassion); Morality (including pro-sociality and cooperation); Collective action (including sustainability and climate action). Expertise in field experimentation, experience sampling, or the use of biological measures including hormones, immune markers, or sleep is also welcome.

UC Irvine has a terrific group of faculty and students in Psychology and related disciplines who study morality, emotion, social cognition, and intergroup processes. The department provides many possibilities for collaboration. Southern California, with its natural amenities and sunny climate, is a great place to live. In addition, this position will provide the scholar with unique access to conduct research in Lake Tahoe, a global destination for pristine nature and social experience.

Applicants must have received a Ph.D. in Psychology or a related field by the start date of the appointment, or shortly thereafter. The successful applicant will have a record of excellence in research, high quality contributions in top-ranked journals, with interests strongly aligned with the MESH Lab. Our lab is committed to equity and diversity, and we are seeking candidates who value diversity and whose research reflects a commitment to equity.

All qualified candidates are invited to submit the following application materials:

1) A 1-2 page cover letter
2) Curriculum vitae
3) Statement of Research
4) Up to two samples of previously published work
5) Inclusive Excellence Activities Statement - Statement addressing how past and/or potential contributions to inclusive excellence will advance UCI's Commitment to Inclusive Excellence. See our guidance for writing an inclusive excellence activities statement.

Apply link: https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/JPF09482