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Applying Psychological Science to Problems in Organizations
The ConnectWell @ Work Laboratory conducts field research to better understand worker motivation, stress, and well-being issues among teleworkers and other workers who use electronic work (e-work) communications as part of their jobs.
Connecting well means using technology in a way that promotes sustainable work engagement. How can organizations promote effective work connections for productivity and let workers "unplug" to maintain well-being? This lab conducts research on evidence-based solutions for tackling problems with “always on” workplace practices that increase worker stress and burnout due to the 24/7 nature of e-work communications. Alternatively, “optimally on” workplace practices help employees maximize effectiveness and well-being at work.
Typical lab topics include examining issues surrounding work engagement, work inclusion, work recovery (including sleep), and work-life balance among teleworkers. This lab also explores effective organizational, leadership, and workgroup practices for creating positive telework experiences. Request free access to lab research publications on ResearchGate for more information.
Work Engagement
What motivates teleworkers to engage fully with their work tasks? How can we increase meaningful and productive experiences of e-work communications?
Work Inclusion
What facilitates rewarding relationships at work and feelings of inclusion? How can we reduce feelings of isolation and negative e-work communications?
Work Recovery
What helps teleworkers disconnect so that they can experience sufficient work recovery (switching off mentally and behaviorally after work, better sleep)? How can we improve telework recovery for less stress and better well-being?
Work-Life Balance
What improves work-life balance experiences among teleworkers? How can we provide flexible work practices and communication strategies to help teleworkers effectively manage work and personal/family goals?
Making a Difference in Organizational Practices
The ConnectWell @ Work Laboratory provides consultation and speaking services to organizations interested in learning more about teleworker motivation and well-being.
Dr. Lacie Barber is a highly-published, international expert on worker stress and well-being issues. Her research has been funded by the Society for Human Resources (SHRM) Foundation and the National Institute of Occupational Health & Safety (NIOSH). She has research methodology expertise in survey development and administration, as well as organizational assessment and consulting. Organizational partners on research activities can also receive pro bono or reduced fees for consultation services and assessments.
Joining the Lab as a Prospective Research Assistant
The ConnectWell @ Work Laboratory is currently training graduate students admitted to the M.S. Applied Psychology Program as research assistants. Students interested in the Industrial-Organizational Psychology or Quantitative Methods specializations are welcome to apply.
Dr. Barber is currently accepting new graduate lab members for Fall 2026. If you'd like to work with Dr. Barber, mention specific topics of interest related to her lab research publications in your statement of purpose. You may also request free access to publications on ResearchGate if you have trouble accessing them from a library account.
If you have any questions about admissions, please visit the M.S. Applied Psychology Program to learn more about the graduate program and how to apply. The application deadline is Dec 15 to be considered for Fall entry the following year. Contact the Psychology Department graduate admissions coordinator for more information. Undergraduate positions are currently not available.
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