SPAN Lab

I direct the Stress Psychophysiology and Affective Neuroscience (SPAN) Laboratory at Rutgers University, Newark. Research in the lab examines the psychological and physiological mechanisms underlying differences in how people respond to stress, with a focus on stress occurring during childhood. We use a number of different approaches, including behavioral testing, questionnaires, psychophysiological (e.g., ECG, impedance cardiography), and neuroendocrine (e.g. cortisol) methods. Some of our current research questions include: How does stress influence children’s ability to learn from and use emotional information to make decisions? How do environmental and physiological factors interact to influence variability in children and adult’s perceptions of stress? How does stress shape how we perceive and understand emotions? Currently there are opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students to conduct research in the lab.

You can find more information about the lab and the research we do on our website!

For Students

Graduate Research Opportunities

I will be reviewing both PhD and MA applications this cycle. You can find more information on the application process at Rutgers, Newark here.

If you have specific questions related to the lab and research being conducted, please do not hesitate to contact me directly!

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

The SPAN Lab is currently recruiting undergraduate research assistants (RAs) for Spring 2023. Working in the lab provides excellent opportunities for students considering careers in social and/or affective neuroscience, developmental psychology, child and/or adult clinical psychology, and cognitive psychology, and for those considering medical training with an interest in health and development.

Undergraduates interested in joining the SPAN Lab may apply by completing this Google form. Coursework in Child Development, Neuroscience, and Psychology is recommended. Undergraduate education is a major part of our lab’s research mission, and we are enthusiastic about providing Rutgers, Newark undergraduates opportunities to collaborate and be involved in our studies!

Undergraduates working in the lab must be available during after-school and weekend hours, times when most children are available to participate in research. You will also be required to attend our bi-weekly lab meetings.

Please email the lab at span.lab.run@gmail.com with any questions.