What kinds of methods do you use?

We specialize in structural equation modeling, longitudinal designs, psychometrics, and mixed methods approaches. Our goal is to develop tools that make sense of complex, messy, real-world data. 

Do you only do methods work, or also applied projects?

Both! We advance quantitative methods and build new statistical tools, but we try to tie them back to applied questions. For example, we study how soft skills shape PhD workforce trajectories, how measurement of neuropsychological tests is or is not invariant (both methodologically and practically) across cultures, and how PhD students develop and learn over time. Through these projects, we have developed mixed methods frameworks to integrate LLMs and longitudinal assessment then have used methods to answer applied questions.

Who is part of the lab?

The lab primarily includes graduate students and faculty from IO psychology, personality psychology, and clinical psychology, but we are actively seeking new members, including undergraduate and graduate students, colleagues, and collaborators with related interests.

What roles do students play in projects?

Students are involved at each stage, from designing studies, analyzing data, presenting at conferences, and publishing papers. We prioritize mentorship and hands-on experience.

What skills can I expect to gain?

Lab members develop strong foundational knowledge in measurement, research design, quantitative modeling, longitudinal design, and data cleaning/analysis, while also learning to connect these methods to theory and application. Many also gain experience with interdisciplinary teamwork, networking skills, scientific writing, and project management. It is up to each lab member to determine what skills they wish to obtain and actively engage in projects that will support their growth.

What is the lab culture like?

We strive to make the lab a supportive, inclusive environment for growth and learning. To achieve these goals, we value kind and constructive criticism, work-life balance through time management and goal-setting, honest communication about project progress, willingness to make and learn from mistakes, respectful communication, and personal accountability and ownership of our decisions. Each person's voice in the lab is as important as all other lab members, and we encourage all lab members to show up both physically and mentally to better contribute to a positive learning environment.

How are tasks assigned to lab members?

Broad tasks are assigned to lab members who indicate interest, and each lab member will need to determine how to organize and complete tasks by breaking them into smaller components. Dr. Litson does not micromanage students and does not anticipate doing so in the future. If lab members do not meet task assignments in a reasonable timeframe, these shortcomings will come up in one-on-one check-ins, yearly evaluations, and potentially lab meetings if the task is part of a larger project (though one-on-one will be prioritized if there is a major issue to discuss). If task management becomes an issue, project leads will individually meet with trainees with the goal to resolve the situation, re-assign tasks, and/or provide task management support.

What resources are available for lab members?

Resources include lab computers with specialized statistical software (e.g., Mplus), access to AI/LLM technology, and shared IQRM lab space. Additional resources can be requested through Dr. Litson or senior lab members.

What funding is available for graduate students or undergraduate students?

If you are a current UH student and interested in being funded through the IQRM lab, you should directly contact Dr. Litson with your inquiry. Because of the lab focus, we are often looking for members with interest in career development, measurement, and education-to-career transitions. We also look for members who have expertise in related mathematics and statistics, data science, computer science, AI/LLMs, or strong writing skills.