Institute of Behavioral Science (IBS) Fellow and Associate Research Professor, Christine Steeger, is our inaugural Associate Director at IBS!
Before joining the Institute in 2017, Christine was a research scientist in the Social Development Research Group (SDRG) at the University of Washington. Her research interests include prevention science, developmental psychopathology, etiology of problem behaviors (risk and protective factors during development), tobacco and cannabis research, and individual-, family- and school-based interventions. Christine earned her doctorate degree in Developmental Psychology at the University of Notre Dame in 2013.
Learn more about Christine in our recent interview below:
- Why did you decide to apply for associate director?
One of the draws of the IBS Associate Director position is that it is a 50% FTE administrative role, which allows me to contribute to IBS in an administrative capacity but also continue my research as an Associate Research Professor in the Prevention Science Program (PSP). This position provides a new opportunity for me to support Institute-wide scholarship and community. Additionally, the role spans administrative activities in leadership, operations, and engagement areas. I like that there are several areas in which I can bring my experience and contribute to the success of IBS, while also further building my professional skills in these areas.
- What are you most excited about for your position?
I’m really looking forward to learning more about IBS programs and centers beyond my home program (PSP) and connecting with other faculty, staff, and students in the Institute. There are a lot of opportunities for collaboration across the Institute, and I hope to forward these efforts to support IBS’ mission.
- Outside of IBS, what can we find you doing on the weekends/do you have a favorite hobby?
I enjoy being outdoors and active. You can find me skiing, hiking, or golfing on the weekends. I bring my Golden Retrievers on as many outdoor excursions as I can!
- Where is your favorite place in Colorado or Boulder?
One of my favorite places is the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. They’re so rugged and beautiful. I’ve climbed 52 of 58 of Colorado’s 14ers and many 13ers as well. I hope to finish hiking the 14ers within the next few years.
- Have you sat in on any IBS lectures recently?
I’ve attended several IBS Speaker Series presentations this semester, which provide a great opportunity to learn about interesting social-behavioral research both within and outside of my content area, as well as connect with members of the IBS community. An example of an IBS Speaker Series/Elliott Lecture Series talk I found particularly interesting was presented by Dr. Melissa Walls, “Strengths-Based Research with Indigenous Communities: Approaches, Outcomes, and More.” She spoke about collaborative relationships with Indigenous communities to advance health equity in culturally safe ways.
