The Faculty of Education and Human Development (FEHD) is proud to announce that two distinguished faculty members from the Department of Psychology (PS), Dr Emma Buchtel and Dr Ivan Poon Kai Tak, have been named Fellows of the Association for Psychological Science (APS) for 2025. This prestigious recognition highlights their sustained and exceptional contributions to psychological science and their impact on the global research community.
Dr Emma Buchtel, Associate Professor of PS and Associate Dean (International Engagement) at FEHD, is celebrated for her pioneering research on Chinese cultural influences on psychology. Reflecting on the honour, she said, “Conducting research on how cultural contexts shape moral concepts, motivation, and reasoning highlights the need to increase cross-cultural understanding. I am deeply honored to be recognized by APS for my research and service to academic organizations that support international collaboration in psychology.” Her interdisciplinary approach and leadership positions in multiple international academic organizations have significantly advanced cross-cultural psychology.
Dr Ivan Poon Kai Tak, Associate Head (Research) and Associate Professor of PS, focuses his research on testing the consequences of negative interpersonal experiences, such as ostracism and objectification. He also investigates factors that help individuals cope with these challenges. He shared, “I am grateful to be elected as an APS Fellow. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of my students, mentors, and collaborators. I also thank the Department, Faculty, and University for supporting my research. I am dedicated to advancing research that promotes social cohesion, harmony, acceptance, and well-being.” His outstanding contributions to psychological science have previously been recognised with the APS Rising Star designation and the University’s President’s Award for Outstanding Performance in Research.
The APS Fellow recognition is awarded to APS members who have demonstrated sustained, exceptional contributions to psychological science through research, teaching, service, and practical applications. It reflects their dedication to advancing the field and mentoring diverse students and research participants worldwide.
This achievement underscores FEHD’s commitment to pioneering psychological research that benefits individuals and communities. The recognition of Dr Buchtel and Dr Poon exemplifies the Faculty’s dedication to excellence, diversity, and meaningful engagement —core values that drive our vision of creating a positive, real-world impact through psychology.
