Overview

Research psychologists are responsible for research that determines the effects of physiological, psychological and social variables on military personnel and their families. Research psychologists use interdisciplinary methodologies to conduct empirical research to enhance servicemember performance and health.

The Army’s research psychology community is academically oriented, but it also conducts program-driven applied research. Our officers are encouraged and expected to remain academically engaged and collaborate with academics from top universities from across the globe. Our research is routinely presented at top conferences and published in both books and peer-reviewed journals such as The New England Journal of Medicine, Journal of Applied Social Psychology, Journal of Applied Psychology and many others.  To get an idea of our community’s research efforts, please visit: http://www.ndu.edu/press/lib/pdf/books/71F-Advantage.pdf.

Job Duties

• Conduct research to determine the effects of physiological, psychological and social variables on the health and performance of military personnel in order to develop programs and products (e.g., interventions, prevention training, etc.) to enhance both servicemember and their family’s health.
• Perform special health support staff officer duties.

Requirements

Active Duty

• Possess a PhD in psychology, or related behavioral science, with a strong research emphasis from an accredited program.
• Be a United States citizen.
• Be between the ages of 21 and 42.
• Be eligible to receive a secret security clearance.
• Meet Army medical, height, and weight standards.
  
  

Army Reserve

• In addition to the above qualifications, permanent U.S. residency is required for Reserve duty officers.

Training

Research psychologists have access to sophisticated technologies, research methods, and opportunities to consult with leading military and civilian researchers, as well as the other professional growth opportunities such as attending professional development courses, research seminars, and academic conferences.

Helpful Skills

In addition to being able to develop and execute research protocols, research psychologists must possess statistical skills and aptitude using statistical software packages such as PAWS (SPSS) or SAS.

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Active Benefits:
In addition to the many privileges that come with being an officer, you will be rewarded with:

• Competitive starting salary plus a sizeable tax-free housing allowance.
• 30 days of paid vacation per year.
• Possible student loan repayment assistance.
• Free medical care for you and your family.
• Free dental care for you and inexpensive care for your family.
• A substantial pension after 20 years of service. This pension does not require a contribution on your part and it will continue for the duration of your life.
• Eligible to make tax-deferred contributions to the federal Thrift Savings Program, a portable retirement plan.
• Ability to partake in the GI Bill, which is transferable to your dependents.
• Access to inexpensive life insurance, with coverage of $400K for you and $100K for your dependents.
• Access to an inexpensive worldwide network of lodging, recreational and leisure services.
• Potential home loan assistance through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Free global travel on military aircraft.
  

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education.