Graduate Students
I am most likely reviewing and taking a student this year. In particular I will be looking for a student who is very interested in one of our new projects: a) development of a personalized eating disorder treatment b) following kids to see how anxiety and interoception leads to ED onset and/or c) using wearables to predict suicide and ED behaviors in AN spectrum. If interested in following kids to learn more about the onset of EDs, the student would be co-mentored by Dr. Levinson and Dr. Bufferd (https://www.uoflcamlab.com/). See more information on that spot below.
Dr. Cheri Levinson & Dr. Sara Bufferd will be reviewing graduate applications for a co-mentored PhD student in the Clinical Psychology program at the University of Louisville for admission in Fall 2024. Dr. Levinson, Director of the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) lab and Dr. Bufferd, Director of the Child Anxiety and Mood lab will co-mentor the incoming student; Dr. Levinson will serve as the primary mentor and Dr. Bufferd will serve as the secondary mentor.
The student will collaborate with Dr. Levinson and Dr. Bufferd and their team on a National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) funded multi-method, multi-informant longitudinal study testing how child anxiety and interoceptive deficits contribute to the onset of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors. The student will gain experience conducting diagnostic, behavioral, psychophysiological, and ecological momentary assessments and supervising and mentoring research assistants. In addition, there will be many opportunities for involvement with publications and conference presentations as well as other EAT and CAM lab projects.
This role will be a good fit for applicants with research interests in developmental psychopathology and comorbidity between anxiety and eating disorders. Applicants should describe these interests in their application, along with experience in scientific writing, analyzing and interpreting data, and working with children and their parents in research settings.
When applying, please list Dr. Levinson as your first preference for mentor and list Dr. Bufferd as your second preference for mentor (you may also list a third faculty member who is accepting students).
We look forward to reviewing your application!
Frequently Asked Questions about Graduate Applications
1. Are you accepting a new graduate student this cycle (2024-2025)?
I am most likely reviewing and taking a student this year.
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.
I am most likely reviewing and taking a student this year. In particular I will be looking for a student who is very interested in one of our new projects: a) development of a personalized eating disorder treatment b) following kids to see how anxiety and interoception leads to ED onset and/or c) using wearables to predict suicide and ED behaviors in AN spectrum. If interested in following kids to learn more about the onset of EDs, the student would be co-mentored by Dr. Levinson and Dr. Bufferd (https://www.uoflcamlab.com/). See more information on that spot below.
Dr. Cheri Levinson & Dr. Sara Bufferd will be reviewing graduate applications for a co-mentored PhD student in the Clinical Psychology program at the University of Louisville for admission in Fall 2024. Dr. Levinson, Director of the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) lab and Dr. Bufferd, Director of the Child Anxiety and Mood lab will co-mentor the incoming student; Dr. Levinson will serve as the primary mentor and Dr. Bufferd will serve as the secondary mentor.
The student will collaborate with Dr. Levinson and Dr. Bufferd and their team on a National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) funded multi-method, multi-informant longitudinal study testing how child anxiety and interoceptive deficits contribute to the onset of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors. The student will gain experience conducting diagnostic, behavioral, psychophysiological, and ecological momentary assessments and supervising and mentoring research assistants. In addition, there will be many opportunities for involvement with publications and conference presentations as well as other EAT and CAM lab projects.
This role will be a good fit for applicants with research interests in developmental psychopathology and comorbidity between anxiety and eating disorders. Applicants should describe these interests in their application, along with experience in scientific writing, analyzing and interpreting data, and working with children and their parents in research settings.
When applying, please list Dr. Levinson as your first preference for mentor and list Dr. Bufferd as your second preference for mentor (you may also list a third faculty member who is accepting students).
We look forward to reviewing your application!
Frequently Asked Questions about Graduate Applications
1. Are you accepting a new graduate student this cycle (2024-2025)?
I am most likely reviewing and taking a student this year.
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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