Moriah Sokolowski named Rising Star by Association for Psychological Science

The Association for Psychological Science (APS) (external link)  is a scientific hub for leading psychological researchers, educators, and practitioners. Each year, APS recognizes post-PhD researchers globally who exemplify remarkable innovation and great potential for future advancement. These Rising Stars (external link)  demonstrate excellence in their discoveries, methodologies, publications, commitment to diversity and research contributions during the earliest stages of their career. 

As of February 2025, psychology professor Moriah Sokolowski was named amongst APS’ newest Rising Stars—notably one of five researchers recognized across Canada.

Moriah Sokolowski is a professor in the Department of Psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), where she specializes in cognitive neuroscience, development, academic achievement, mathematical thinking, learning and memory. Sokolowski was previously a Banting Postdoctoral Fellow at the Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest Hospital, where she currently holds an adjunct scientist appointment. Her research has been supported by grants from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. 

Sokolowski is the director of the NeuroImaging Development and Educational Attainment (neuroIDEA) Lab, where she and her team of undergraduate and graduate researchers explore how the developing mind supports complex learning using diverse methodologies, including behavioural and brain-imaging techniques. Sokolowski is also interested in exploring the social and emotional factors that influence mathematical thinking and is passionate about linking research findings to real-world outcomes that support individual wellbeing, academic achievement, and occupational success. 

On receiving the award, Sokolowski expresses, “I am honoured to be recognized as an APS Rising Star. This designation reflects not only my work but also the incredible support of my colleagues, mentors, and students. My research explores how the developing mind learns academically relevant skills, especially math, with the goal of informing evidence-based educational practices. I hope this recognition helps highlight the importance of understanding how we learn and how we can better support students in building confidence and competence in math.”

Explore Sokolowski’s research and publications.