Thank you for your interest in joining the SRCH lab!
WE ARE RECRUITING!
Dr. Atherton will be reviewing graduate student applications for the upcoming academic cycle, with the goal of recruiting 1 PhD student to start in Fall 2025. Below is some information that you might find useful in determining whether you’d be a good fit for the lab, as well as some answers to frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of research questions are you currently working on?
In addition to answering research questions listed on the Research tab of this website, there are four overarching themes of current work in the lab: 1) moderating and mediating mechanisms linking contexts, self-regulation, and health (e.g., mental, physical, health behaviors) across the lifespan; 2) self-regulation development among older adults; 3) utility of social-personality psychology in real-world health settings; 4) methods and practices in psychological science. You can also look at the “Manuscripts — Revise/Resubmit and Under Review” section of Dr. Atherton’s CV to learn more about recent work that the lab is conducting under these general themes.
What is your mentoring style like?
Dr. Atherton takes an individual differences approach to mentoring, meaning that she recognizes and appreciate that each person is unique and has their own identities, backgrounds, values, needs, and goals. As a result, mentoring is viewed as an intentional and equitable process, with open communication and continued evaluation. She strives to be intentional by tailoring her mentoring to the individualized needs, goals, and values of each person. She strives to be equitable by providing each person with the same access, opportunity, and advancement within their chosen path.
What sorts of criteria do you use to evaluate grad school applications?
Please see here.
I saw that you are listed as part of the Social/Personality area and the Developmental area. Do you accept PhD students into both areas?
Yes! Although Dr. Atherton is primarily appointed to the Social/Personality area, she is also a faculty affiliate of the Developmental area and can accept PhD students into either area.
Where can I find more information about the Social/Personality PhD Program?
Please see here.
Where can I find more information about the Developmental PhD Program?
Please see here.
Where can I find more information about how to apply, stipend/benefits details, etc.?
Please see here.
How do I write a Statement of Purpose and Personal History Statement for my grad school application?
Is the GRE required to apply?
No.
Do you consider applications from international students?
Yes!
What happens after I submit my application?
Typically, your application materials will be reviewed in December-January, and invitations to interview will be sent out in January-February. Interviews generally take place in February, with final decisions sent out as soon as possible after all interviews have been completed.
What should I do if I still have questions?
Please contact Dr. Atherton directly at olivia.atherton@ucr.edu.