Jennifer Wessel

Dr. Jennifer L. Wessel is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Maryland, College Park, and Director of the Identity Management (IMg) Lab. Her research focuses on diversity and inclusion in the workplace, identity management strategies, and authenticity. She has taught courses in Social Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and Diversity in Organizations. Her research is funded by the National Science Foundation, Society for Human Resource Management, and others.

Education: PhD in Psychology (2012), MA in Psychology (2008) from Michigan State University; BA in Psychology (2006, cum laude) from Rice University.

Research interests include stigma management in marginalized groups, authenticity at work, and organizational policies promoting inclusion. Recent studies explore applicant reactions to AI systems and mental illness disclosure in workplaces. The IMg Lab combines laboratory and field methodologies to address these topics.

Advising and grants: Supervised numerous doctoral and undergraduate students (e.g., Rewina Bedemariam, Precious McQuade). Grant funding includes NSF and private foundations. Publications span journals like Journal of Business and Psychology and Psychology of Women Quarterly.

Labs/Teams: Directs the IMg Lab, which examines identity management in work contexts. Collaborates on projects related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations.