Research Associates

			Karen Hwang, Ed.D., recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in rehabilitation outcomes at Kessler Research Foundation, and is Adjunct Assistant Professor of Medical Rehabilitation at University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey.  Her prior research experience has focused on quality of life issues in persons with traumatic disabilities, including stroke, brain injuries and spinal cord injuries.  Her current interest is in the medical and psychological correlates of religion and atheism in the US population, and the consequences of anti-atheist discrimination.
			Ryan T. Cragun, Ph.D., is a sociologist specializing in religion.  His prior research focuses on the growth and decline of Mormonism, factors predisposing individuals to leave religion, and secular life.  He is an Assistant Professor at the University of Tampa, in Tampa, FL.  When he's not doing sociology, he enjoys cooking, spending time with his wife, and watching sci-fi.
			Joseph H. Hammer, M.Ed., is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at Iowa State University. His research focuses on issues of diversity, with specific attention to bias and discrimination towards various cultural groups. He is currently exploring the utility of Meyer's (2003) minority stress model for understanding the nature and sequelae of discrimination experienced by atheists and other secular individuals, and the implications for research, practice, and secular identity development.