I-O Program Mission and Vision

Mission 

We shape the future of work by advancing knowledge, applying evidence-based insights, and preparing scholars and practitioners to address the pressing challenges facing individuals, organizations, and society. 

Vision 

We strive for a program recognized for its intellectual leadership, rigorous and cutting-edge science, and meaningful societal impact. We aim to build a collaborative community where theory and practice inform each other, students are encouraged to pursue diverse academic and applied career paths, and work is conducted with methodological excellence, integrity, and respect for all individuals. In this environment, we will generate knowledge that advances scientific understanding while delivering tangible benefits to individuals, groups, and organizations within and outside our local community. 

Values

How we conduct ourselves while pursuing our mission and vision 

Scientific Rigor 

Rigorous, innovative scientific inquiry is the cornerstone of our work. Our efforts are grounded in scientific integrity, strong empirical evidence, and theoretical precision—in the classroom, in our research, and in service to organizations and communities. 

We live up to this value by: 

  • Providing rigorous methodological training 
  • Using advanced, cutting-edge, emerging methods 
  • Training and adopting ethical research practices 
  • Rigorously testing & advancing theory using a wide variety of methods 
  • Preparing our students for rigorous scientific careers in either academia or practice 

Connection 

Our program prioritizes developing and sustaining high-quality relationships among students, faculty, alumni, organizational partners, and the scientific community. We value integrating multiple perspectives to advance the visibility, impact, and enjoyment of our work. 

We live up to this value by: 

  • Collaborating across labs and disciplines
  •  Integrating with university initiatives 
  • Developing business partnerships 
  • Participating in community-building within the program and with alumni 

Prosocial Impact 

We are committed to engaging in work that benefits individuals, organizations, and society. We ask and address questions that matter and translate scientific knowledge into actions that make a positive impact—both locally and globally. 

We live up to this value by: 

  • Aligning research questions with organizational, funder, and community needs 
  • Pursuing grant-funded work 
  • Awarding impactful research and practice 
  • Translating research to practice 

Respect for Individual Differences and Autonomy 

We believe that diversity enriches understanding and impact. We support individual autonomy in scholarly pursuits and professional development, encouraging members to align their work with their personal goals, interests, and strengths.  

We live up to this value by: 

  • Recognizing of the value of different types of publications 
  • Training students to be prepared for many different types of careers  
  • Celebrating individual successes, no matter the specific domain 
  • Tailoring assistantship opportunities to student interests 
  • Allowing students to craft their own research path  
  • Allowing flexibility in coursework