Family Involvement Laboratory (FIL)

Undergraduate Students 

Undergraduate Research Assistants (RAs) play a crucial role in the Family Involvement Lab. Students are involved in many aspects of data collection, behavioral coding, analysis, scientific writing and presentation. As an RA, undergraduates are exposed to research methodology and as the logistics of running a study. They become familiar with HIPAA, the administration of a protocol, and become accustomed to a rigorous research setting. 

If you are interested in working for research credit or volunteering in the Family Involvement Laboratory, please email Pinar at rpkaran@umd.edu your resume/CV and an unofficial transcript to schedule an interview with you regarding your interests and what projects you will be involved in. UMD students can receive credit by taking 3 credits of EDHD 498 or 489. Permission of the instructor is required.

Graduate Students

Students interested in pursuing a MA or PhD degree should apply to the Human Development program within the Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology. Please visit our department's website to learn more about degree options and application-specific information. The Human Development Program has two specializations that students can choose: Developmental Science and Educational Psychology. Dr. Cabrera is affiliated with the Developmental Science program, although students can be affiliated with both areas. 

Dr. Cabrera will not be accepting graduate students for the 2026-2027 academic year.