Thank you for your interest in working with our team!
Prospective PhD Students
I will be reviewing applications for a new PhD student for the 2025-2026 academic year (for entry in 2025). Below are some FAQs that you may find helpful.
How do I know if I’m a good fit for the lab?
When evaluating an applicant’s fit for our team, I prioritize passion for research, enthusiasm about learning, and alignment of the applicant’s interests with my areas of expertise and the current work our team is doing. I value self-initiative, innovation, creativity, attention to detail, organizational skills, and a cooperative mindset.
What are the values of the research team?
Team values include mutual respect, collaboration, integrity, and professionalism. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are guiding principles. For more details, please see this document.
What is your mentorship style?
My primary role as your mentor will be to help you develop the research skills you want and need to be successful in your career. I will also provide support and guidance on other aspects of the graduate program. We will meet weekly or biweekly one-on-one and biweekly with the larger team, in addition to being in frequent communication via email. The projects you get involved with will depend on your specific interest areas and training goals.
My GPA is low. Will my application still be competitive?
Applications are reviewed holistically when evaluating each candidate’s potential to succeed in our doctoral program. I consider both the academic and non-academic achievements of each applicant. See the program and university websites for minimum academic requirements.
I don’t have a lot of research experience, but I have clinical experience. Will I be a good candidate?
Our Clinical Psychology PhD program follows a scientist-practitioner model, for which both clinical and research experiences are valued. Having some research experience demonstrates a foundational understanding of research processes and will strengthen your application.
I don’t have any experience with HIV research. Can I still apply to work with you?
Yes, you can! Given that HIV is the focus of many of our team's projects, having an interest in HIV is valued, even if you do not have direct HIV research experience. Past applicants have not always had direct HIV research experience. However, successful applicants have generally been interested in HIV and had research experience in related areas (e.g., sexual health, LGBTQ+ health, stigma, healthcare disparities) if not HIV specifically.
Undergraduate Students, Post-Baccs, Post-Docs, and Others
Are you currently accepting new research assistants or volunteers?
There are no research assistant/volunteer openings with our team at this time.
However, for GWU undergraduate students interested in gaining research experience, this spreadsheet lists faculty in the department who have current openings with their research team.
