Kristin Vickers

Kristin Vickers is an Associate Professor and Undergraduate Program Director in the Department of Psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), Faculty of Arts. She earned her PhD from Harvard University and has been a faculty member since 2005.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD, Harvard University

Dr. Vickers' research centers on anxiety disorders, particularly the etiology and correlates of unexpected panic attacks. She investigates how biological stress can be provoked—such as through carbon dioxide challenges—to study individual differences in stress and panic responses. Her work also explores resilience and risk factors in psychological stress, contributing to a deeper understanding of anxiety pathophysiology. She teaches courses in Introductory and Abnormal Psychology, demonstrating a strong commitment to pedagogy.

Her recent publications reflect a sustained focus on panic disorder, stress reactivity, emotional regulation, and innovative teaching methods. Themes across her work include laboratory models of panic, social anxiety, media influences on self-perception, and parenting stress. The use of experimental and survey methodologies is prominent, with applications in both clinical and educational contexts.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Slobodan Drakulic Cross-Disciplinary Teaching Award, Faculty of Arts, Ryerson University (2012)

Dr. Vickers actively mentors students in her research lab and encourages undergraduate and graduate involvement in her projects. While specific grant details are not mentioned, her sustained publication record suggests ongoing research funding. She has collaborated with researchers across psychology subfields, including trauma, developmental psychology, and clinical interventions.

She leads a research lab focused on anxiety and stress, accessible via http://psychlabs.ryerson.ca/vickers/, where students engage in empirical studies on panic and emotional regulation.