Postdoctoral Researcher Behavior, Culture, and Inequality Lab; PI: Dr. Catherine Thomas

Postdoctoral Researcher in the Behavior, Culture, and Inequality Lab (PI: Dr. Catherine Thomas)

A cover letter, CV, and writing sample are required for consideration.

The postdoctoral researcher will support a theoretical and empirical agenda on advancing a "culturally wise behavioral science," i.e., understanding the role of culture in a globalizing behavioral science. Collaborations between the postdoc and the PI will lead to a series of articles on theoretical integrations of the cultural psychology, social psychology, behavioral science, and behavioral economics literatures; methods papers for developing culturally wise behavioral science interventions;

and empirical papers on expanding the theoretical foundations of behavioral science for populations outside of WEIRD contexts. The role may involve original data collection via cross‑cultural studies and experiments on online platforms to test theoretical predictions aligned with these goals.

• Perform literature reviews to address theoretical research questions.
• Merge global datasets to conduct secondary analyses, including data analysis, visualization, and interpretation, utilizing advanced proficiency in R.
• Run experiments on online platforms (e.g., BeSample, Prolific) and conduct experimental analysis.
• Prepare manuscripts and supporting materials, including figures and supplementary documentation, based on research findings.
• Disseminate research results through presentations, publications, and other relevant channels.

• PhD degree or equivalent in social or cognitive psychology, behavioral science, or a related field.
• Expertise in cultural psychology.
• Outstanding writing abilities, with strong organizational, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills.
• Data analysis and visualization skills in R, including for advanced analyses (e.g., meta‑regression).

• Experience with running social psychological or behavioral science experiments on online platforms (e.g., BeSample, Prolific).
• Experience with running and publishing secondary data analyses, such as meta‑analyses.

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time and for any reason throughout the course of employment.

The salary range is $63,480 – $65,000. A higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience. This is a 12‑month term‑limited position with the possibility of renewal, with an anticipated start date of September 1, 2026 (flexible).

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.