Kevin Jarbo

Kevin Jarbo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social and Decision Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), part of the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in Psychology from CMU (2018) with a focus on decision-making and neuroimaging. He also holds a Master of Science in Psychology from CMU (2015) and a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh (2006).

Research interests center on how stereotype threat influences student decisions in academic settings, particularly related to race and gender identity. His work integrates cognitive neuroscience methods, including fMRI and diffusion MRI, to study decision-making processes and neural circuitry. Jarbo also leads initiatives in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at CMU, advising student organizations and implementing programs addressing racial equity and masculine gender identity development.

He has secured grants from the Russell Sage Foundation, Templeton Foundation, and American Psychological Foundation, focusing on topics like stereotype threat, moral framing in decisions, and racial equity in STEM education. Notable publications include studies on corticostriatal mechanisms in decision-making and the application of high-definition fiber tracking in neurosurgery.

• Grants & Awards: President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship (2018–2021), McClelland Prize (2015), Kavli Summer Institute Fellow (2016).
• Service: DEI committee member at Dietrich College, faculty advisor for student groups, and organizer of the Black Futures Summit.
• Teaching: Courses on behavioral decision-making and grand challenge seminars on race and identity in America.