Join the Lab

Currently Recruiting!

The ALPHA Lab will begin recruiting graduate students to start in Fall 2026 through the Quantitative Psychology Ph.D. Program!

A jogger in a blue shirt runs on a path bordering a misty lake. The Golden Dome of the Main Building and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart spire are visible beyond colorful autumn trees.
The lakes at Notre Dame

Have you always been curious about how we analyze data and how we draw conclusions in psychological research? Do you find yourself thinking critically about whether the methods we use actually work the way we think they do? If so, the ALPHA Lab might be a great fit for you.

We are looking for students who are excited about evaluating and advancing statistical and computational methodology—those who enjoy exploring how methods behave, under what conditions they succeed or fail, and how we can make them more robust and interpretable.

Our work focuses on simulations, methodological comparisons, and theoretical development in areas such as measurement, mediation analysis, and machine learning. Students who are motivated by these questions, and who want to contribute to improving the foundations of quantitative science, will thrive here.

If this resonates with you, we encourage you to list Dr. Oscar Gonzalez as your first-choice mentor when applying to the Quantitative Psychology Ph.D. Program at Notre Dame.

Environment

The University of Notre Dame offers a distinctive environment for research and learning. It combines the energy of a top-tier research university with a close-knit academic community where collaboration is encouraged and ideas move easily across disciplines. The Department of Psychology has a strong tradition of excellence in quantitative methods, and our quantitative psychology doctoral program is one of the best in the world. Students benefit from access to cross-departmental resources in data science, computer science, and applied mathematics, as well as a culture that values mentorship, intellectual rigor, and meaningful scholarship.

Located in South Bend, Indiana, Notre Dame’s campus is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country, featuring historic architecture, tree-lined lakes, and a vibrant academic setting. South Bend itself offers a welcoming and affordable quality of life, with a growing arts and restaurant scene, accessible trails and parks, and an active community of students and faculty. The city is just 90 minutes from Chicago by train or car, offering the perfect balance of small-city comfort and big-city access.