Postdoctoral Research Associate

The SPECIEs Lab in the Department of Psychology at the University of Arizona (directed by Diego Guevara Beltran) is recruiting one Postdoctoral Research Associate. The postdoc will help administer studies, analyze data, and lead publications stemming from two projects: (1) links among sources of interdependence (e.g., kinship, shared meals, labor; see figure below), perceived shared fate, cooperation, social integration, and physical (e.g., BMI, blood-level glucose, food insecurity) as well as mental (i.e., loneliness, anxiety, depression, happiness, life satisfaction) well-being among the Mayangna of Northern Nicaragua, an indigenous people who rely primarily on horticulture for subsistence.

(2) A large cross-cultural survey examining links among sources of interdependence, perceived shared fate, and cooperation across relationships. Together, these projects aim to uncover the cognitive architecture of positive fitness interdependence, its cross-cultural generalizability/variability, and its potential consequences for well-being. The postdoc will also collaborate on other ongoing projects, gain mentorship and professional development, as well as co-mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Minimum qualifications:

PhD in social/cognitive psychology, evolutionary anthropology (or related field), and strong quantitative skills (e.g., multi-level modelling, SEM, network analysis).

Preferred qualifications:

Fluent in Spanish, willingness to conduct fieldwork, and knowledgeable in the Evolutionary Behavioral Sciences.

Start date and duration:
Spring - Fall 2027 (preferred date is May 2027), 2-3 years.

Location and compensation:
In person (Tucson, Arizona, US), $65,000/year (full benefits eligible).

Questions/contact: dguevarabeltran (lab website).