Bisconti TRI-Lab

Project Description:

The TRI-Lab investigates transitions, resilience, and identity across adulthood and aging, with projects focused on marginalized groups within the queer community—including later-life gender transition, social transitioning processes, future-time perspective among older transgender adults, and identity salience in bisexual individuals. Ongoing studies span data collection through interpretation, alongside a second research line examining modern expressions of ageism (e.g., “OK Boomer”) compared to traditional measures using interviews and qualitative analyses. A third area explores identity salience across the lifespan, with current data from college students being expanded to middle-aged and older adults. Finally, emerging work in the lab evaluates how authenticity and positionality in teaching sensitive topics influence student growth and learning.

What Would You Learn:

Undergraduate research assistants will work closely with graduate students on active research projects and participate in weekly lab meetings, gaining experience across the entire research process—from generating ideas to disseminating findings. Students will develop practical skills in data collection, transcription, and qualitative and quantitative analysis, with opportunities to engage in every stage of project development. Those who take on more advanced roles may also have the chance to present their work at local or regional conferences.

Commitment:

4 hours per week (translates to 2 credits of PSYC 497: Independent Reading & Research). This includes attending weekly lab meetings with the remaining 3 hours focusing on the above opportunities during hours that are convenient for you.