Postdoctoral Researcher in the Behavior, Culture, and Inequality Lab (PI: Dr. Catherine Thomas)

A detailed cover letter is required for consideration when applying for this position and should be uploaded via the UM Careers website as the first page(s) of a single, electronic document of application materials that also includes your CV or resume and a writing sample. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline your skills and experience that directly relate to the duties described below.

Additional materials can be sent to thomascc@umich.edu. Materials will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Deadline is June 15, 2026 and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

The postdoc researcher will support a theoretical and empirical agenda on advancing a 'culturally wise behavioral science,' i.e., understanding the role of culture in a globalizing behavioral science. Collaborations between the postdoc and the PI will inform a series of articles to be written on theoretical integrations of the cultural psychology, social psychology, behavioral science, and behavioral economics literatures; methods papers for developing culturally wise behavioral science interventions; and other empirical papers on expanding the theoretical foundations of behavioral science for populations outside of WEIRD contexts. There is a possibility of original data collection via running cross-cultural studies and experiments on online platforms to test theoretical predictions aligned with the goals above.

• Perform literature reviews to address theoretical research questions
• Merge global datasets to conduct secondary analyses, including data analysis, visualization, and interpretation, utilizing advanced proficiency in R
• Experience with running experiments on online platforms (e.g., BeSample, Prolific) and experimental analysis
• Prepare manuscripts and supporting materials, including figures and supplementary documentation, based on research findings
• Disseminate research results through presentations, publications, and other relevant channels

• PhD degree or equivalent in social or cognitive psychology, behavioral science, or a related field
• Expertise in cultural psychology
• Outstanding writing abilities, with strong organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
• Data analysis and visualization skills in R, including for more advanced analyses (e.g., meta-regression)

• Experience with running social psychological or behavioral science experiments on online platforms (e.g., BeSample, Prolific)
• Experience with running and publishing secondary data analyses, such as meta-analyses

The salary range is $63,480 - $65,000. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience.

This is a 12-month term-limited position with the possibility of renewal. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2026 (flexible).