Current Projects

Live or work in the Shenandoah Valley and have a question, notice something interesting about your community, or want to chat about how research can help you? Contact Dr. Bryce today. We would love to partner with you! 

Perspectives on the April 21st Special Election

On April 21, 2026 voters in the commonwealth of Virginia voted to temporarily redistrict Virginia's congressional districts similar to other measures in other states in the US. We are investigating perspectives on this legislation to see if people from different geographic regions feel differently about this measure, and if asking about this measure undermines trust in the scientific process. 

Developmental Pathways of Queer Clergy in Rural America

Inspired by his dissertation into developmental trajectories of rural-dwelling, queer adults, Dr. Bryce is investigating a subset of data from the Red River Rainbow Seniors Oral History Project to understand how queer religious leaders develop their vocational identities in rural America. This work is essential for both theologians and developmentalists as the modern Church wrestles with queer inclusion in religious spaces. Please reach out to Dr. Bryce if you are interested in collaborating on this project!

Socialization of Coping Strategies in Rural Appalachia 

Continuing his master's project, Dr. Bryce is investigating how parents and guardians teach coping skills to their children in rural Appalachia. Data collection for this project is slated to begin in Fall 2026. Appalachia offers a rich cultural heritage in which to investigate overcoming adversity. Please reach out to Dr. Bryce if you are interested in collaborating on this project or are wanting to participate!  

Climate Change and Aging

Leading a collaborative team of researchers at North Dakota State University, Dr. Bryce is using global secondary data to investigate predictors of climate change attitudes across adulthood. As climate change accelerates, trust in science diminishes, and the number of aging adults rapidly grows across the globe, understanding climate change perspectives in later life is crucial.