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 2026. 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
will support the PI (Dr. Valerie Jones Taylor) in work related to VR interracial
interactions in academic and social contexts.
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 1-year appointment. The position is salaried, includes
benefits, and up to $1,000 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 to
apply if you (1) believe that you have the skills for this position, (2) meet
some of the criteria outlined above, and (3) are passionate about social
psychology and studying intergroup interactions (e.g., interracial interactions)
within the social sciences.