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The dominant strengths of the department lie in four broadly defined areas of development, cognition, neuroscience, and social and personality psychology.
Cornell offers substantial resources for psychological research, including excellent research space and laboratory equipment; state-of-the-art computer facilities; an outstanding library system that is one of the ten largest academic research libraries in North America; and a highly skilled support staff
Our group of scientists and scholars celebrate a well integrated faculty with core foci and strengths. We also aim to expand current strengths and build new concentrations to enhance collaborations both within the department and across the University and world. Our faculty works collaboratively at the whole-department level, respecting the specialties of current mid-career and junior faculty to forge the direction for the next 5, 10, and 25 years.
If you maintain an interest or affinity with the department and you want to see it grow and succeed, we welcome your support. Programmatic needs always seem to outstrip our financial resources.
Gifts can be directed by phone via the Office of Alumni Affairs and Development, or by donating online
Season 2 of Cornell's Research Matters podcast launches Aug. 25 with 18 episodes on how academic discoveries translate into practical insights that shape everyday life and society. Cornell College of Arts and Sciences faculty from astronomy, government, physics and psychology will be featured in the new season.
Mice use distinct neuron groups for squeaks and social vocalizations, psychology researchers from Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences have found. The study reveals how mammalian brains organize vocal communication and may inform research on speech impairments linked to neurological diseases.
Cornell professor David Rand '04, a graduate of the College of Arts and Sciences, advances misinformation research using AI tools that help counter conspiracy beliefs and improve accuracy judgments. The former MIT scholar and punk musician now leads cross-college initiatives on informed society applications.
A study led by Cornell College of Arts and Sciences psychology researchers David Rand and Gordon Pennycook won the 2026 Behavioral Science & Policy Association publication award. The study across 16 countries found analytic thinking and accuracy prompts improve truth discernment and reduce sharing of false information.
Tom Gilovich, a psychologist in Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences, ffers five evidence-based travel tips prioritizing experiences over material purchases. He highlights journaling, exciting moments, physical preparation, thoughtful gift-giving, and strong trip endings to boost happiness and lasting memories.
Rikki Laser, a doctoral candidate in psychological sciences and human development in Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences, studies how temperature and parenting shape social development. Her research reveals how environmental perception influences neurobiology, behavior, health, and well-being.