Jonathan Schooler

Jonathan Schooler is a Distinguished Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). He is a prominent researcher in cognitive psychology and philosophy, focusing on topics such as consciousness, mind-wandering, creativity, and memory.12

Academic Background

Schooler received his B.A. in psychology from Hamilton College in 1981 and his Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Washington in 1987.24 His academic career has spanned several prestigious institutions:

• Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh (1987-1993)
• Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh (1993-2001)
• Full Professor at the University of Pittsburgh (2001-2004)
• Canada Research Chair in Social Cognitive Science at the University of British Columbia (2004-2007)
• Distinguished Professor at UCSB (2007-present)3

Research Interests

Schooler's research takes a "big picture" perspective on understanding mental life and consciousness.6 His work intersects cognitive psychology and philosophy, exploring areas such as:

• Mind-wandering and meta-awareness
• Belief in free will and its effects on behavior
• Mindfulness and creativity
• Memory and verbal overshadowing
• The science of science (meta-science)

He is particularly known for his pioneering work on "verbal overshadowing," which demonstrated that verbally describing events can lead to less accurate memory of those events.2

Achievements and Recognition

Schooler has made significant contributions to his field:

• Author of over 200 scientific papers
• Former holder of a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair
• Fellow of various scientific organizations, including the Association for Psychological Science
• Osher Fellow at the Exploratorium Science Museum in San Francisco
• Editor of "Scientific Approaches to Consciousness" (1997)25

His research has been supported by numerous grants from U.S. and Canadian governments, as well as private foundations like the John Templeton Foundation.25

Current Work

At UCSB, Schooler directs the Center for Mindfulness and Human Potential and is the Acting Director of the SAGE Center for the Study of the Mind.4 He continues to explore phenomena at the intersection of empirical research and philosophy, investigating how fluctuations in awareness mediate mind-wandering and how exposure to philosophical positions affects behavior.6

Jonathan Schooler's work has significantly influenced our understanding of human cognition and consciousness, making him a respected figure in the field of psychological and brain sciences.