معرفی
Ryan Best is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at West Virginia University, within the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on lifespan developmental psychology, particularly how motivational and cognitive changes across adulthood influence decision-making and goal pursuit.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology, Florida State University (2016)
- M.S. in Cognitive Psychology, Florida State University (2011)
- B.S. in Psychology and Biology, University of Delaware (2008)
Dr. Best’s research is grounded in lifespan developmental theory, especially the goal orientation perspective, which posits that as individuals age, their motivations shift from growth to maintenance and loss prevention. His work investigates how these motivational shifts affect risk preferences, framing effects, and numeracy in aging populations. He also explores how older adults perceive and interact with emerging technologies such as automated vehicles and eHealth systems, integrating psychological theory with real-world applications.
His lab has been supported by prestigious fellowships, including an NIH/NIA postdoctoral fellowship, indicating strong recognition of his research potential in aging. Though no publications are listed in the provided text, his research agenda suggests active contributions to cognitive aging and decision science.
Scientific Awards:
- NIH/NIA Postdoctoral Fellowship
Dr. Best teaches core methodology courses including Psychology 203 (Research Methods & Analysis I), Psychology 204 (Research Methods & Analysis II), and Psychology 512 (Research Design & Analysis II). He is actively mentoring and will be accepting graduate students for Fall 2025. His lab, the Best Lab, focuses on experimental and applied research in aging and decision-making.
The Best Lab investigates key questions in aging, such as whether loss prevention goals lead to risk-avoidant or risk-taking behaviors, how numeracy buffers cognitive decline, and how perceived benefits and effort influence older adults' adoption of novel technologies like automated vehicles and digital health platforms.
