As a member of the HaBiT Research Lab, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of tobacco regulatory control.
You will play a crucial role in advancing our lab’s collective success.
Your unique skills, perspectives, and contributions will enrich our research endeavors and help us make a meaningful impact in the field.
Dr. Jao WILL be reviewing applications for the RFUMS Clinical Psychology PhD program for the 2027-2028 academic year.
In general, Dr. Jao is looking to recruit students who have interests in nicotine and tobacco research; and are collaborative, committed, open, communicative, and organized. Students with previous experience in substance use research, especially tobacco use, and have health psychology-focused interests would be a good match for the lab.
Current and recent projects in the lab focus on (1) flavorings in nicotine products, (2) smoking-related health outcomes, and (3) smoking in priority and minoritized populations. Newer interests also include (1) nicotine product use in adolescent and LGBTQ+ populations, and (2) tobacco and cannabis co-use.
Please note that to remain unbiased in the review of applications and to be equitable across all applicants, it is our department’s policy to not meet individually with applicants prior to our PhD Interview Day. However, if you have a specific question that cannot be answered through our webpage and would influence your decision to apply (e.g., the fit of your research interests with the lab), you are welcome to reach out to Dr. Jao with brief questions. Please review the program website for more information about the curriculum and clinical training offered through our program. Information about justice and inclusivity opportunities within the department can be found here, and tips for putting together a strong application can be found here.
Dr. Jao is open to chatting with students in the Research Track in the RFUMS Clinical Counseling MS program about the research opportunities in her lab. In particular, Dr. Jao welcomes students who are interested in pursuing future doctoral studies, and are looking to obtain hands-on research experiences in the area of clinical research and tobacco regulatory science.
Dr. Jao is NOT currently reviewing applications for research assistants or post-doctoral fellows.
We welcome volunteers who have an interest in gaining hands-on experience in human-subject clinical research. Please be aware that our primary research studies are conducted in-person and often involve complicated clinical procedures, which require extensive, in-depth training. Our volunteers generally work on 1-2 research projects at a time and are asked to commit to working in the lab for at least one year, with preference to those who can commit to two-years. Individuals who are interested in volunteering for a shorter period of time (e.g., summer volunteers) are asked to commit at least 20 hours/week for 4-6 months to be able to obtain the full research experience.
All individuals involved in our research studies are required to complete human-subject CITI training prior to starting any research activities.