EAT LAB SUMMER RESEARCH INTERNSHIP PROGRAM 2023
Application due date is February 1st, 2023
The Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) lab at the University of Louisville is excited to announce that applications are now open for our summer research internship program. Summer research internships are highly competitive positions open to undergraduate, post-bacc, and graduate students and can be performed virtually or in-person. This summer, we will be accepting three to four interns. Applicants should have demonstrated high academic potential and have a passion for working on research in the eating disorder field. We encourage applications from individuals who are first-generation college students and/or from any underrepresented background.
Many of our summer interns have been in the early years of a graduate program (e.g., clinical psychology, counseling psychology, nutrition), medical students, or advanced undergraduate students. We welcome applicants from a broad range of disciplines. These positions are open for qualified applicants interested in an 8 to10-week, 40 hours a week research experience working at the EAT lab. Applicants accepted to the program will receive a $2,500 stipend. Applicants receiving a stipend must be based in the US. Please note that we are not able to provide housing or dining services. Interns are given project and mentor assignments based on their experience and interests. If you are particularly interested in working with a specific member of the lab or on a particular lab research project, please indicate so on your application. Lab members and current research projects are listed on our lab website (https://www.louisvilleeatlab.com).
The internship experience includes:
Summer research internship applicants are required to submit a current CV, a current academic transcript, and 2-3 names of references.
For more information or questions, contact our summer internship coordinator, Emma Roberts, at emma.roberts@louisville.edu. Applications are due by February 1st, 2023. Interviews will be conducted on Zoom at the end of January. Start date is flexible but ideal start is mid May 2023.
Graduate Students
Dr. Levinson may or may not take a PhD student for the 2023-2024 cycle but she will be reviewing applications. She is especially interested in graduate students interested in working with existing data (a) modifying exposure therapy for eating disorders, (b) using idiographic models to personalize treatment, and (c) developing psychophysiology algorithms collected with wearable sensors to predict eating disorder recovery and relapse.
Frequently Asked Questions about Graduate Applications
1. Are you accepting a new graduate student this cycle (2022-2023)?
I will be reviewing applications this year, which means that if there is an application that is a good fit, then there is a high likelihood that I will admit a student.
2. What are the goals of the EAT Lab?
Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Laboratory has a six-pronged mission, all of which center on improving the lives of those with eating disorders. Our mission is to (a) conduct cutting-edge research to develop novel treatments for eating disorders, (b) provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for eating disorders (c) train the next generation of eating disorder researchers and clinicians, (d) distribute scientifically-based prevention programs across the community, (e) advocate for more awareness, better treatment, and services for eating disorders, and (f) work toward a more equitable and inclusive future that alleviates barriers to accessing high-quality treatment, prevention, and research for underserved populations.
3. What do these goals mean for graduate students?
The EAT lab invests in training individuals in advanced statistical methodologies, measurement and digital treatment via technology, and clinical research that draws from both the eating disorder literature (e.g., CBT-E) and various subfields, such as the anxiety field (e.g., exposure therapy). Students receive training to conduct high-quality research and to implement evidence-based interventions. For example, it is not uncommon for students to be working on multiple papers at once, while also working with patients and administering assessments in the lab regularly. Further, students are encouraged to apply their research and clinical skills within the community to increase awareness and promote equity, such as involvement in the KY Eating Disorder Council (situated in the state legislature) and the Body Project (an eating disorder prevention program).
4. What does the EAT Lab study?
We primarily have four major areas of interest.
Read more here: EAT LAB - About (louisvilleeatlab.com)
5. What makes a candidate a good fit for your laboratory?
Good fit candidates generally have worked 2 years in an eating disorder or related research lab (either during or after undergraduate) or have a Masters degree. Candidates should be passionate about eating disorder research and treatment development. In particular, I am looking for someone who would like to work with existing data either using idiographic (i.e., one person)/ecological momentary assessment methods, wearable sensor data, or data from one of our clinical trials on personalized treatment or exposure therapy for eating disorders. There may be opportunities for students to collect their own data, but I am specifically looking for someone who wants to capitalize on our existing data collections. Finally, our lab is fast-paced, meaning a candidate that would thrive in a busy, hard-working, collaborative, and rapid paced lab would be an ideal fit. This means you need the ability to work independently, work hard, and take initiative.
6. Where do your students go on to after getting their PhD?
Most of my students to date have gone on to academic research positions. See our alumni page.
7. I want to be a clinician, am I a good fit?
No. We are looking for someone who strives to be a clinical researcher (whether in academia or industry). Although there are many opportunities for excellent clinical opportunities and training (e.g., opportunities to work across eating disorder levels of care; work on clinical trials), a student who is primarily looking for a clinical job would not be happy in the EAT lab. Someone who is passionate about becoming a clinical researcher, while gaining high quality clinical training would be the best fit for our lab.
8. What is your mentorship style like?
I am invested in training the next generation of clinical researchers in the eating disorder field. My students generally meet with me more during the beginning years of their PhD and transition into greater independence as they move through the program. I meet regularly with my students and am invested in helping each student establish and meet their training goals. I keep student goals at the center of my mentorship. I provide feedback that addresses where/how mentees meet and exceed expectations, while also providing feedback on where they can grow to meet their training goals. I have been described as a ‘direct’ mentor, meaning you always know how you are doing. Given that we are a very large and research active laboratory there will be an expectation that you are able to do both team based and independent work. Please also see my mentorship policy here.
9. What sorts of experiences could I expect if I become a PhD student in the EAT lab?
The great thing about the EAT lab is that there is a large variety of training experiences available to you. You will have the chance to work on clinical trials, learn about advanced analytic methods, write papers, present at conferences, and submit grants. Finally, collaborations with external researchers are common and its likely you will get to work with collaborators both in and outside of the EAT lab (see collaborators page) during graduate school. You will also have the chance to work with many different team members ranging from mentoring undergraduate students to working with our excellent post-doctoral fellows. If this sounds exciting to you- you may be a good fit.
10. How do you and your lab approach diversity?
One of the EAT lab’s primary goals is to “work toward a more equitable and inclusive future that alleviates barriers to accessing high-quality treatment, prevention, and research for underserved populations.” We have had recent initiatives like intentional lab meetings that focus on diversity every semester (e.g., in past semesters we have had FED UP present, interactive exercises discussing power), discussion on how systems of oppression limit access to treatment, supported papers investigating EDs across race and sexual orientation identities. Please note though, we do not study between-group differences. Instead, we take an idiographic approach. For example, how could idiography be used to understand individual differences, rather than assuming all people's experience is the same because of a shared identity? The Lab also values diverse thought /understands people with various backgrounds bring unique perspectives and strive to create a diverse group of team members. I provide mentorship on opportunities designed to support systemically minoritized individuals (e.g., the lab currently supports 2 diversity supplements and I am a consultant on a diversity F31). Diversity is an area in which we always need to do better and I strive to learn alongside my team members.
If you are from an underrepresented group please apply for a application fee waiver: https://redcap.louisville.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=3ELY9WY7HC8JAYEN
11. What values do you follow/hope to instill in your lab?
First and foremost, I value creating a kind, collaborative, and non-competitive environment where everyone feels supported and can thrive. Practically, this means you will find we are a team-science environment and that every member is willing to help and support others. If this sounds like it fits with your values, you would be a good fit.
12. How are your students typically funded?
All of the PhD students in the EAT lab have full funding and insurance benefits. Most students are funded on university fellowships, independent student grant funding (Diversity supplement, NSF; F31 NIH), or on one of Dr. Levinson’s grants. Some students are also funded by Teaching Assistantships, which is also a common funding source even if you have an external fellowship, meaning you will likely get some experience with teaching.
13. What are your expectations for graduate students like?
Please see the EAT Lab graduate student guidelines that outline what it is like to be a graduate student in the EAT Lab. In terms of major projects: Students typically complete a first year project, which is a first-author manuscript using existing data. In their second to third year students complete a project that corresponds to a master’s thesis, either from existing or new data. In third year students write a preliminary paper that is generally then submitted for publication. In years 4 and 5 students work on their dissertation. If you are invited to interview you will get multiple chances to ask graduate students and post-docs what it is like to be a member of our team.
**Thanks for Claire Cusack, Caroline Christian, Christina Ralph-Nearman and Jamie-Lee Pennesi for providing input and edits on this FAQ.
RESEARCH ASSISTANTS
We are currently looking for volunteer RAs to assist with various lab/study management tasks. This opportunity is great for undergraduates who are looking for research experience in the eating disorder field. For more information, email emma.roberts@louisville.edu.
Application due date is February 1st, 2023
The Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) lab at the University of Louisville is excited to announce that applications are now open for our summer research internship program. Summer research internships are highly competitive positions open to undergraduate, post-bacc, and graduate students and can be performed virtually or in-person. This summer, we will be accepting three to four interns. Applicants should have demonstrated high academic potential and have a passion for working on research in the eating disorder field. We encourage applications from individuals who are first-generation college students and/or from any underrepresented background.
Many of our summer interns have been in the early years of a graduate program (e.g., clinical psychology, counseling psychology, nutrition), medical students, or advanced undergraduate students. We welcome applicants from a broad range of disciplines. These positions are open for qualified applicants interested in an 8 to10-week, 40 hours a week research experience working at the EAT lab. Applicants accepted to the program will receive a $2,500 stipend. Applicants receiving a stipend must be based in the US. Please note that we are not able to provide housing or dining services. Interns are given project and mentor assignments based on their experience and interests. If you are particularly interested in working with a specific member of the lab or on a particular lab research project, please indicate so on your application. Lab members and current research projects are listed on our lab website (https://www.louisvilleeatlab.com).
The internship experience includes:
- Summer intensive research experience working with faculty, post-doctoral fellows, and advanced graduate students. Summer interns regularly complete at least one publication and/or abstract presentation, and often more.
- Weekly lab and research meetings with faculty, lab staff, post-doctoral fellows, graduate students, and research assistants. Some of our meetings include presentations from expert researchers in eating disorder and related fields.
- Opportunity to present their research to the EAT lab research team and receive feedback on content and style.
Summer research internship applicants are required to submit a current CV, a current academic transcript, and 2-3 names of references.
For more information or questions, contact our summer internship coordinator, Emma Roberts, at emma.roberts@louisville.edu. Applications are due by February 1st, 2023. Interviews will be conducted on Zoom at the end of January. Start date is flexible but ideal start is mid May 2023.
Graduate Students
Dr. Levinson may or may not take a PhD student for the 2023-2024 cycle but she will be reviewing applications. She is especially interested in graduate students interested in working with existing data (a) modifying exposure therapy for eating disorders, (b) using idiographic models to personalize treatment, and (c) developing psychophysiology algorithms collected with wearable sensors to predict eating disorder recovery and relapse.
Frequently Asked Questions about Graduate Applications
1. Are you accepting a new graduate student this cycle (2022-2023)?
I will be reviewing applications this year, which means that if there is an application that is a good fit, then there is a high likelihood that I will admit a student.
2. What are the goals of the EAT Lab?
Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Laboratory has a six-pronged mission, all of which center on improving the lives of those with eating disorders. Our mission is to (a) conduct cutting-edge research to develop novel treatments for eating disorders, (b) provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for eating disorders (c) train the next generation of eating disorder researchers and clinicians, (d) distribute scientifically-based prevention programs across the community, (e) advocate for more awareness, better treatment, and services for eating disorders, and (f) work toward a more equitable and inclusive future that alleviates barriers to accessing high-quality treatment, prevention, and research for underserved populations.
3. What do these goals mean for graduate students?
The EAT lab invests in training individuals in advanced statistical methodologies, measurement and digital treatment via technology, and clinical research that draws from both the eating disorder literature (e.g., CBT-E) and various subfields, such as the anxiety field (e.g., exposure therapy). Students receive training to conduct high-quality research and to implement evidence-based interventions. For example, it is not uncommon for students to be working on multiple papers at once, while also working with patients and administering assessments in the lab regularly. Further, students are encouraged to apply their research and clinical skills within the community to increase awareness and promote equity, such as involvement in the KY Eating Disorder Council (situated in the state legislature) and the Body Project (an eating disorder prevention program).
4. What does the EAT Lab study?
We primarily have four major areas of interest.
- Adapting exposure therapy from the anxiety disorders to the eating disorders.
- Using idiographic network modeling to personalize treatment for eating disorders.
- Developing new tools, such as wearable sensors, that can prevent and treat eating disorders.
- Dismantling diet culture and educating medical professionals and the public on the harms of weight stigma.
Read more here: EAT LAB - About (louisvilleeatlab.com)
5. What makes a candidate a good fit for your laboratory?
Good fit candidates generally have worked 2 years in an eating disorder or related research lab (either during or after undergraduate) or have a Masters degree. Candidates should be passionate about eating disorder research and treatment development. In particular, I am looking for someone who would like to work with existing data either using idiographic (i.e., one person)/ecological momentary assessment methods, wearable sensor data, or data from one of our clinical trials on personalized treatment or exposure therapy for eating disorders. There may be opportunities for students to collect their own data, but I am specifically looking for someone who wants to capitalize on our existing data collections. Finally, our lab is fast-paced, meaning a candidate that would thrive in a busy, hard-working, collaborative, and rapid paced lab would be an ideal fit. This means you need the ability to work independently, work hard, and take initiative.
6. Where do your students go on to after getting their PhD?
Most of my students to date have gone on to academic research positions. See our alumni page.
7. I want to be a clinician, am I a good fit?
No. We are looking for someone who strives to be a clinical researcher (whether in academia or industry). Although there are many opportunities for excellent clinical opportunities and training (e.g., opportunities to work across eating disorder levels of care; work on clinical trials), a student who is primarily looking for a clinical job would not be happy in the EAT lab. Someone who is passionate about becoming a clinical researcher, while gaining high quality clinical training would be the best fit for our lab.
8. What is your mentorship style like?
I am invested in training the next generation of clinical researchers in the eating disorder field. My students generally meet with me more during the beginning years of their PhD and transition into greater independence as they move through the program. I meet regularly with my students and am invested in helping each student establish and meet their training goals. I keep student goals at the center of my mentorship. I provide feedback that addresses where/how mentees meet and exceed expectations, while also providing feedback on where they can grow to meet their training goals. I have been described as a ‘direct’ mentor, meaning you always know how you are doing. Given that we are a very large and research active laboratory there will be an expectation that you are able to do both team based and independent work. Please also see my mentorship policy here.
9. What sorts of experiences could I expect if I become a PhD student in the EAT lab?
The great thing about the EAT lab is that there is a large variety of training experiences available to you. You will have the chance to work on clinical trials, learn about advanced analytic methods, write papers, present at conferences, and submit grants. Finally, collaborations with external researchers are common and its likely you will get to work with collaborators both in and outside of the EAT lab (see collaborators page) during graduate school. You will also have the chance to work with many different team members ranging from mentoring undergraduate students to working with our excellent post-doctoral fellows. If this sounds exciting to you- you may be a good fit.
10. How do you and your lab approach diversity?
One of the EAT lab’s primary goals is to “work toward a more equitable and inclusive future that alleviates barriers to accessing high-quality treatment, prevention, and research for underserved populations.” We have had recent initiatives like intentional lab meetings that focus on diversity every semester (e.g., in past semesters we have had FED UP present, interactive exercises discussing power), discussion on how systems of oppression limit access to treatment, supported papers investigating EDs across race and sexual orientation identities. Please note though, we do not study between-group differences. Instead, we take an idiographic approach. For example, how could idiography be used to understand individual differences, rather than assuming all people's experience is the same because of a shared identity? The Lab also values diverse thought /understands people with various backgrounds bring unique perspectives and strive to create a diverse group of team members. I provide mentorship on opportunities designed to support systemically minoritized individuals (e.g., the lab currently supports 2 diversity supplements and I am a consultant on a diversity F31). Diversity is an area in which we always need to do better and I strive to learn alongside my team members.
If you are from an underrepresented group please apply for a application fee waiver: https://redcap.louisville.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=3ELY9WY7HC8JAYEN
11. What values do you follow/hope to instill in your lab?
First and foremost, I value creating a kind, collaborative, and non-competitive environment where everyone feels supported and can thrive. Practically, this means you will find we are a team-science environment and that every member is willing to help and support others. If this sounds like it fits with your values, you would be a good fit.
12. How are your students typically funded?
All of the PhD students in the EAT lab have full funding and insurance benefits. Most students are funded on university fellowships, independent student grant funding (Diversity supplement, NSF; F31 NIH), or on one of Dr. Levinson’s grants. Some students are also funded by Teaching Assistantships, which is also a common funding source even if you have an external fellowship, meaning you will likely get some experience with teaching.
13. What are your expectations for graduate students like?
Please see the EAT Lab graduate student guidelines that outline what it is like to be a graduate student in the EAT Lab. In terms of major projects: Students typically complete a first year project, which is a first-author manuscript using existing data. In their second to third year students complete a project that corresponds to a master’s thesis, either from existing or new data. In third year students write a preliminary paper that is generally then submitted for publication. In years 4 and 5 students work on their dissertation. If you are invited to interview you will get multiple chances to ask graduate students and post-docs what it is like to be a member of our team.
**Thanks for Claire Cusack, Caroline Christian, Christina Ralph-Nearman and Jamie-Lee Pennesi for providing input and edits on this FAQ.
RESEARCH ASSISTANTS
We are currently looking for volunteer RAs to assist with various lab/study management tasks. This opportunity is great for undergraduates who are looking for research experience in the eating disorder field. For more information, email emma.roberts@louisville.edu.
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