Nichole Lighthall

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is inviting applications for 1-2 PhD student positions in the Human Factors and Cognitive Psychology program, with research opportunities in the Adult Development & Decision Lab led by Associate Professor Nichole Lighthall. The lab focuses on decision processing in adult development and age-related neurodegenerative diseases, utilizing cognitive tasks, surveys, biomarker sampling, computational modeling, and functional neuroimaging. Current projects investigate deception and exploitation vulnerability, including scams and online fraud, in healthy aging and Alzheimer’s Disease. The lab is funded by the National Institutes of Health, the Florida Department of Health, and the Department of Defense. The Human Factors and Cognitive Psychology Ph.D. program at UCF blends psychology and technology to explore human interaction with complex systems, advancing research in human performance, decision-making, usability, and cognitive processes. Students gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge labs and collaborate on projects that shape the future of human-technology interaction. The program is accredited by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society and follows a scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing research, critical thinking, and ethical conduct. Applicants should have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology or a related field, with coursework in statistics and experimental psychology. Research experience, especially in labs, and coursework in cognition, perception, and learning are recommended. Application materials include a CV, personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. GRE scores are not required. The program offers four years of full tuition and stipend support through Graduate Assistantships, making it a fully funded opportunity for admitted students. The application deadline for domestic applicants is January 1, 2026, for Fall 2026 entry. For more information about the lab and program, visit the provided links. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in human factors, cognitive psychology, decision science, aging, neurodegeneration, and human-technology interaction to join a vibrant research community at UCF in Orlando, Florida.