UROP Project
artificial intelligence, psychology, mental health
Research Mentor: Michael Irias ,
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: irias@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: irias@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: We're particularly interested in students with backgrounds in psychology, computer science, or related fields, but all motivated individuals are encouraged to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: We're particularly interested in students with backgrounds in psychology, computer science, or related fields, but all motivated individuals are encouraged to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
Are you fascinated by the intersection of artificial intelligence and mental health? Join us in exploring the potential role of Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI agents in delivering various forms of psychological support. This project aims to develop conversational AI agents capable of interventions that range from basic psychoeducation, to full psychotherapy interventions.Working closely with Michael Irias, a PhD student in clinical psychology, you'll gain invaluable interdisciplinary experience spanning social psychology, clinical psychology, and applied computer science. By working with our team, composed of both social and clinical psychologists, you will:
- Contribute to the development of AI-powered therapy interventions
- Explore the ethical implications and effectiveness of digital mental health support
- Gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art AI technologies
- Develop skills in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific writing
Research Tasks: - Help build, test, and evaluate various components of AI systems, including text-to-speech technologies and user interfaces
- Conduct literature reviews on AI technologies relevant to mental health interventions
- Assist in compiling and organizing resources for AI systems to use to provide high-quality interventions
- Participate in the assessment of AI-generated therapy conversations
- Help organize and format therapy manuals and instructional materials for AI to learn from
- Explore and test cutting-edge technologies that could be useful for creating high-quality interventions.
- Assist in analyzing user feedback and system performance
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: While these skills are recommended, we value a willingness to learn, curiosity, and reliability above all. If you're passionate about this topic but don't have these skills, we still encourage you to apply!
Recommended skills:
- Programming experience (e.g., Python, JavaScript)
- Familiarity with AI agents and AI-related concepts
- Basic knowledge of psychological theories and therapeutic approaches
- Experience with app development or user interface design
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Basic understanding of research methodologies
Overall, a background in either computer science or psychology (or related fields) would be highly beneficial. This project involves elements of app development and involves understanding psychological concepts, particularly in the context of therapy. We'll be working with therapy manuals and developing AI systems, so familiarity with programming and mental health concepts would be advantageous.
Mentoring Philosophy
My approach to mentoring is rooted in fostering an environment of open communication, collaboration, and continuous learning. I believe that the most effective mentoring relationships are those where both mentor and mentee contribute to the growth of the project and each other.I strive to create a balance between structured guidance and independent exploration. Mentees will engage in a mix of detail-oriented tasks that rely on clear directions, as well as higher-level assignments that encourage creative problem-solving. This approach ensures that mentees feel supported while also having the freedom to develop their own ideas.
I strongly encourage questions and critical thinking. There's no such thing as a "bad question" in our lab. I want mentees to feel comfortable challenging assumptions and asking "why are we doing this this way and not another?" This collaborative spirit helps us continually improve.
To support proactive engagement, I share aspects of the project that are on my "wishlist," providing opportunities for mentees to take initiative on tasks that interest them. This allows mentees to shape their research experience and contribute meaningfully to the project's direction.
Transparency is key in my mentoring approach. I'm always willing to explain my methods, share resources, and discuss the broader context of our work. This openness extends to supporting mentees' professional development: I'm happy to discuss graduate school applications, offer GRE preparation advice, and provide letters of recommendation.
Ultimately, my goal is to not only advance our research but also supports the personal and professional growth of each mentee.