Thank you for your interest in joining the SRCH Lab!
AVAILABLE POSITIONS
I will be reviewing graduate student applications for the 2025-26 application cycle. 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) personality development and how different life contexts (e.g., family, neighborhood, culture) shape that development ; 2) exploring how and why life contexts, personality, and health are related to one another across the lifespan; 3) the nature, benefits, and consequences of self-regulation (e.g., goals, values); and 4) Latine/o/a/x development, health, and wellbeing. You can also look at the “Manuscripts — Revise/Resubmit and Under Review” section of my CV to learn more about recent work that the lab is conducting under these general themes.
What is your mentoring style like?
My overarching goal in building a research lab is to recruit curious and hardworking students who have diverse perspectives, skills, interests, and experiences. As such, it follows that my mentoring approach is tailored to each individual student based on their needs, goals, and professional and cultural backgrounds. In other words, I take an individual differences approach to mentoring that is intentional and equitable. I strive to be intentional by tailoring my mentoring to the individualized needs, goals, and values of each student. I strive 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 I am primarily appointed to the Social/Personality area, I am 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 early December. Then, I make a shortlist of applicants to conduct first-round Zoom interviews with — invitations are typically sent out in mid- to late- December. After the Zoom interviews, invitations to attend the in-person interview at UCR are typically sent out in January-February. In-person interviews at UCR generally take place in February or March, 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 me directly at olivia.atherton@ucr.edu.