The deception detection field has been running in place for quite a few years now. After over 30 years of research the only reliable effects we have found is that people, on average, are likely to overestimate how honest others are, and are overall poor detectors of deception. Individual differences, training, experience, none seem to significantly impact accuracy.
Thus, a new approach is needed that focuses on understanding human veracity judgement. This project will focus on understanding the fundamentals of human judgement when presented with ambiguous, incomplete, and suspicious information. Unlike past “detection” approach, we will approach the matter from a judgment and decision-making perspective, focusing on estimating and understanding how people make judgements about others, and what factors can shift and sway these beliefs and decisions.
If you are interested in open science, and have a strong quantitative and methodological background I invite you to apply for this position.
My research is organised around the following themes:
- Judgement under uncertainty
- Deception detection
- Police Interview procedures
- Emotions and facial expressions
- User behaviour and the Sharing Economy
- Open Science practices and Bayesian statistics
Main methodologies
The line of research conducted in the deception lab focus on quantitative experimental methods. Research is developed using strong theoretical foundations (e.g., causal models) at the planning stage, and experiments are planned to ensure the effects of interests are adequately captured and estimated. All research is pre-registered and held to the current open science practices for transparency and reproducibility. A mix of frequentist and Bayesian frameworks are employed in data analysis and interpretation (you will receive training in all aspects of the research).
That said, there is great flexibility in the exact topics of study and approaches employed. I welcome creativity and ingenuity in research.
About the School
Kingston University’s School of Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences has a strong team of staff whose qualifications, experience and skills underpin all our work. We have a good record of research, which benefits teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Many of our staff have interests of national and international importance, such as advising the government and undertaking economic consultancy.
The School attracts internationally renowned writers, academics, performers and musicians as visiting fellows, honorary graduates and occasional speakers. We run a regular lecture series designed to expose students and staff to the ideas of leading national figures.
Find out more
For further information on the latest research conducted by Dr Zloteanu, click here.
Informal enquiries can be made via email to:
Dr Mircea Zloteanu, Department of Psychology | Department of Criminology, Politics, and Sociology: [Email Address Removed]
How to apply
Your application should consist of a CV and contact details of two academic referees. You must also include a personal statement (1,000 words maximum) describing your suitability for the selected project including how your research experience and interests relate to the lab’s work.
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