Princeton University

The Behavioral Science for Policy Lab (BSPL) at Princeton University is hiring postdoctoral research associate(s) or a more senior researcher(s). Individuals with a PhD and research interests in psychology, sociology, behavioral economics, management, or another social or behavioral science relevant to the study of human behavior on climate change are encouraged to apply.

The BSPL cuts across three academic units at Princeton University: (a.) the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment within the School of Engineering and Applied Science, (b.) the Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy Center within the School of Public and International Affairs, and (c.) the Department of Psychology. Directed by Dr. Elke Weber, the BSPL's mission is to put Weber's previous research insights about the full range of human motivation and human decisions processes into a broader context. Analyzing how decision makers who are imbedded in social networks and their physical and social environment receive information and cues from those sources as well as feedback from the effect of their decisions. The BSPL puts a special emphasis on applying this knowledge of decision making and motivations to climate change. There is also a special emphasis on cross-cultural studies.

The BSPL seeks researchers who are able to analyze data on social norms and misperceptions of social norms (aka pluralistic ignorance), experience of extreme weather events and attribution of these events to climate change or other causes, and partisan worldviews, collective action and policy preferences in the context of climate change. In addition to analyzing and writing papers based on existing data, the researcher will have the opportunity to contribute to and lead the design of surveys and studies further addressing some of the issues identified above, or related topics.

PhD degree in psychology, sociology, behavioral economics, management, or another social or behavioral science is required. Data analysis will require proficiency with the R programming language (or an equivalent) as well as a good foundation in statistics. Knowledge of the Qualtrics survey platform is beneficial but not necessary.

The appointment will be for one year, with possibility of renewal based on performance and funding.

We are interested in receiving applications from members of groups that have been historically underrepresented in relevant fields.

Applicants must apply online at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/25301 and submit a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. Please reach out to md4908@princeton.edu with any questions.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO IS THE LAW.

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