The BRIDGE Lab is a psychology research lab that explores the power of dialogue, storytelling, and community-based healing in response to trauma and conflict. We’re looking for curious, motivated undergraduates who want to engage deeply with the psychological, cultural, and social aspects of healing and justice.
As a member of the BRIDGE Lab, you can expect to engage in any (or all) of the following research-related activities:
Assist with research design, data collection, and data entry
Conduct literature reviews
Participate in lab meetings and discussions
Help plan or facilitate community-based events
Contribute to presentations or publications
Joining the BRIDGE Lab is more than a research opportunity - it’s a chance to develop skills, networks, and perspectives that can shape your academic and professional journey. Lab members can expect to gain:
Hands-on research experience in psychology and community-based methods, including designing studies, analyzing data, and presenting findings.
Professional development through mentorship, opportunities to co-author presentations or publications, and preparation for graduate school or careers in psychology, social sciences, or related fields.
Practical skills such as academic writing, public speaking, and facilitation.
Community engagement experience by working on community-driven projects.
A collaborative community of peers and mentors.
We’re especially excited to work with students who are:
Passionate about trauma healing, peacebuilding, culturally-responsive mental health interventions, or related areas
Thoughtful, reliable, and open to learning
Strong writers and/or comfortable with research methods
Interested in community-engaged work
Committed to ethical and inclusive collaboration
Ability to commit to 5-10 hours per week and attend regular lab meetings for a minimum of one academic year
Experience is great, but not required - we welcome students from diverse backgrounds and levels of research experience.
To apply for the BRIDGE Lab, please submit the following materials to Dr. Kindler at cmkindler@alaska.edu:
Your resume
An unofficial transcript
A short statement (two to three paragraphs) outlining why you are interested in joining the lab
Do I need prior research experience?
Nope! While prior research or completing coursework in research methods is helpful, we welcome students with all levels of research experience.
Can I stay involved beyond one year?
Yes! In fact, you will benefit the longer you are involved. Research collaboration and projects often take time to complete, and by staying involved in the lab throughout the course of your undergraduate experience, you will be more likely to gain exposure to various aspects of the research process.
Contact
If you have questions about our work or are interested in joining the lab, please reach out to Dr. Kindler at cmkindler@alaska.edu.