Announcing Post-Doctoral Fellowship - Fall, 2025

Research Post-Doctoral Fellow Position: Kent State University Veterinary Psychology Lab

The Department of Psychological Sciences at Kent State University invites applications for a post-doctoral fellow position in research. The successful candidate will become part of a multi-disciplinary NIOSH/CDC-funded team led by PI Mary Beth Spitznagel, investigating the impact of an Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACTraining)-based program, “Unburdened – Student” on longitudinal outcomes for registered veterinary technician (RVT) and veterinary medicine (DVM) students as they enter the workforce.

The post-doc will help coordinate our 5 recruitment sites, maintain the Qualtrics-based training program and surveys, and oversee data management. Many additional research opportunities are available, including assistance with other existing data collection efforts, manuscript preparation, grant development, and development of new lines of inquiry based on findings. The post-doc will have access to opportunities for collaboration with colleagues at other universities as well as several local and nationwide veterinary groups. Prospective applicants are encouraged to develop their own projects to facilitate job opportunities after completing their post-doctoral training. Dr. Spitznagel has a track record of successful mentorship of prior post-doc fellows into independent faculty positions. Post-docs are fully integrated into the department and can avail themselves of departmental and university resources. Clinical PhDs will also be able to complete additional clinical training to accumulate required clinical hours for licensure under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. This position is funded for at least two years, with continuation beyond two years possible. Salary is consistent with NIH levels and includes health insurance and a stipend for professional travel and research materials.

Application Description

Applicants must have graduated from or be enrolled in a doctoral program in a related field (e.g., Clinical Psychology, Social Work, Public Health, Veterinary Medicine) with an expected graduation date by 09/01/2025. A track record of research productivity in a related area of science and familiarity with Qualtrics are required. Experience in research with veterinary human factors and advanced quantitative skills are preferred.  

All inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Mary Beth Spitznagel (mspitzna@kent.edu; 330-672-2399). Please send a CV, three letters of reference, and a detailed cover letter describing your research experience, interests, and career goals by email to mspitzna@kent.edu. Applications will be reviewed as they arrive, with priority given to materials submitted by 12/15/24. Start date is flexible.

Kent State University

Kent State ranks alongside other elite universities designated as very high-activity (R1) research institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The university has strong partnerships with regional medical institutions such as Cleveland Clinic Foundation, University Hospitals and NASA. Kent State, located in Kent, OH, is an eight-system campus, doctoral-granting public institution that enrolls approximately 42,000 students and offers more than 300 academic programs at the certificate, associate, bachelor, master, educational specialist, and doctoral levels. The Department of Psychological Sciences is a highly productive, collaborative research environment. The department has over 80 students in doctoral degree programs and over 1000 undergraduate majors. Kent, OH is an inexpensive college town with close proximity to national parks, arts and culture. Students and faculty often live within walking distance. Kent State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.