Anthony D. Ong is a Professor of Psychology in the College of Human Ecology at Cornell University and Director of the Center for Integrative Developmental Science and Human Health Labs. He also holds a research appointment at Weill Cornell Medicine as a Professor of Gerontology in Medicine. He earned his Ph.D. in developmental psychology from the University of Southern California and completed postdoctoral training in adult development and aging at the University of Notre Dame. His research focuses on lifespan dynamics of vulnerability and adaptation, integrating perspectives from affective science, developmental psychology, and behavioral medicine. Key themes include positive emotions and health, neurobiological mechanisms of cultural experiences, social determinants of aging, and resilience processes. He is currently on sabbatical for the 2025–2026 academic year. Educational Background Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology, University of Southern California Postdoctoral Training in Adult Development and Aging, University of Notre Dame Research Interests Ong’s work examines how psychological, social, and biological factors interact to influence health and well-being across the lifespan. He investigates topics such as the role of positive emotions in mitigating disease, the impact of social isolation and loneliness in later life, the neurobiology of cultural experiences, and the buffering effects of positive experiences against genetic risks for depression. His studies often employ advanced statistical methods and longitudinal designs to capture dynamic processes. Labs and Collaborations He directs the Human Health Labs and the Center for Integrative Developmental Science, fostering interdisciplinary research on human development and health. His collaborations span institutions like Weill Cornell Medicine, emphasizing translational research in gerontology and behavioral health.
