Mission
The SWIM Lab is dedicated to understanding how subjective social status and socioeconomic position shape mental health and wellbeing. People's perception of their place in society matters deeply for their health outcomes—often more than traditional measures like income or education alone can capture.
Using quantitative research, we explore how social class operates as a culture, how immigrants navigate status in new societies, and how mindfulness practices can support wellbeing across different social positions. The lab is driven by a commitment to understanding the sociocultural dynamics can lead to more equitable mental health interventions and improve the lives of others.
The SWIM techniques
Growth-Oriented
We meet your where you are. Whether you're an undergraduate taking first steps in research or a PhD student developing independence, we provide the guidance you need to grow.
Balance Power
Happy researchers produce better work. We prioritize work-life balance and flexibility, understanding that life a mixture of the bitter and the sweet. We aim to research using sustainable practices.
Go far together
We work together. Lab members co-author papers, share data collection, provide peer feedback, and support each other through rough patches. Your success is our success.
Lab Culture
SWIM operates as a collaborative, supportive, yet intellectually challenging environment. The best research emerges when people feel valued and supported.
Weekly contact
Our weekly gatherings blend scholarly discussion with community building. Students take turns contributing and sharing knowledge, we check in on goals, and we help each other navigate challenges. It's a space where rigorous science meets genuine care for one another. coping mechanisms to reduce its impact on their daily lives.
One-on-One Mentoring
Every lab member has weekly individual meetings tailored to their developmental stage. New members receive more structured guidance, while advanced students enjoy greater autonomy in shaping their research directions—always within SWIM's broader mission.
Are you a good fit?
SWIM offers a unique opportunity to conduct meaningful quantitative research while developing as both a scientist and a person.
High intellectual metabolism - You process and synthesize complex information quickly and eagerly
Passion for understanding social inequities - You're driven by questions about social class and its impacts
Independence and initiative - You can work autonomously while knowing when to seek guidance
Resilience and adaptability - You juggle life's demands while maintaining high performance
Quantitative orientation - You're comfortable with statistics and data analysis
Psychology background preferred -Though we welcome interdisciplinary perspectives
Global or cross-cultural experience - Helpful but not required