FAQ
Is the DEXTER Laboratory reviewing applications this cycle?
Applicants can apply to the doctoral program and check wether or not the Dexter Laboratory is taking applications this cycle using the provided link (Clinical Psychology concentration) (https://www.usf.edu/arts-sciences/departments/psychology/graduate/phd-psychology.aspx)
What is the focus of the DEXTER Lab?
Our lab uses quantitative methods to study the structural, longitudinal, mechanistic, and dynamic processes underlying pathological personality traits (e.g., borderline personality disorder features), disinhibited behaviors (e.g., substance use, non-suicidal self-injury, sexual risk behaviors), and their comorbidity. We are also interested in the broader taxonomy and comorbidity of psychopathology across time and development. Our research employs a range of methodological approaches, including genetically informed designs, intensive longitudinal data collection, experimental methods, and computational modeling.
What qualifications make an application competitive?
Applicants with the most competitive applications will typically have:
- A clear and compelling explanation of why our lab is the perfect fit for their PhD goals
- Prior research experience(s) that resulted in tangible products (e.g., posters, publications, senior theses), ideally showcasing involvement in project administration, data collection, analysis, and interpretation
- A strong quantitative background, which can be demonstrated through GRE scores, relevant coursework (e.g., computer science, statistics, mathematics), or research applying quantitative methods
- Some programming experience (e.g., R, Python)
- Initiative, independence, and an ability to thrive in a fast-paced research environment
Our lab is particularly well-suited for applicants interested in quantitative research approaches, and less so for those who are primarily focused on full-time clinical practice.
What is your mentorship approach and style?
My mentorship approach follows a junior scientist/apprenticeship model. I emphasize learning by doing, with students taking on guided projects from their first year. As students progress, they become increasingly independent, taking ownership of their research. The goal is to have the graduate student function as an independent scientist, and the complexity of the projects builds throughout the training. I aim to provide hands-on support when needed and to foster autonomy as students develop advanced skills.
Regular communication is key: I meet with students regularly during the academic year for project check-ins, and we hold formal annual reviews focused on professional development. We also have weekly lab meetings, which include a journal club and peer feedback sessions on ongoing projects.
What skills can I gain while training in the DEXTER Lab?
Students in the DEXTER Lab will have the opportunity to develop a variety of skills, including:
- Developing a professional trajectory that supports both short-term goals and long-term career success
- Applying longitudinal models to developmental and intensive longitudinal datasets to answer key clinical questions
- Using computational and dynamic models to understand and predict clinical phenomena
- Implementing quantitative approaches in clinical settings to improve treatment outcomes for individuals
- Designing innovative, carefully controlled experiments
- Writing grants and securing research funding
