DSEC Lab

The DSEC Lab looks to recruit dedicated undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in the development of emotional communication skills in adolescence. Students receive training in experimental design, statistical analysis, the collection and analysis of neuroimaging data, speech analysis, behavioural coding, and the communication of scientific findings.

Why join the DSEC Lab?

Graduate students

The DSEC Lab will not be accepting new graduate students this cycle (for Fall 2027 entry).

Typically, Prof. Morningstar can accept students in the Developmental, Clinical*, or Cognitive Neuroscience programs at Queen's. Individuals with interest in understanding the biological, cognitive, and social processes influencing teenagers' perception of their peers are particularly encouraged to apply (for Fall 2028 entry or later). The ideal candidates are scientifically curious, detail-oriented, and motivated to learn. Information about admissions can be found here. Candidates are welcome to contact Prof. Morningstar with research ideas or specific questions.

*Please be advised that, as a Developmental faculty member, Prof. Morningstar does not have priority in accepting students to the Clinical stream and may be unable to accept a student in this program.

Undergraduate students

Directed lab students: Dr. Morningstar may be taking a directed lab student (PSYC 570/575 only) in the 2026-2027 academic year. If you are interested in completing a directed lab course in the DSEC Lab, please email Dr. Morningstar (attaching your CV and unofficial transcript) in early July 2026.

Volunteer research assistants: The DSEC Lab will have volunteer RA positions available for Fall 2026-Winter 2027. Volunteer RAs typically contribute 8-10 hours/week on average to recruitment, data collection, data processing/analysis, and science communication efforts. If you are interested in this type of role, please email the DSEC Lab Coordinator (attaching your CV and unofficial transcript). Note: We require volunteer RAs to have completed PSYC100 (or equivalent). Statistics and research methods course(s) are an asset.

Summer fellowships: The DSEC Lab may offer the opportunity to conduct a fellowship through USSRF, NSERC USRA, or ASURF in Summer 2027. Keep an eye out for these application opportunities, which are typically advertised through the Department of Psychology in the spring. SWEP positions may also become available (applications through SWEP in the spring).