Erin K. Lancaster, BPhil

About Erin

Erin K. Lancaster is a 2025–2026 Hot Metal Bridge Post-Baccalaureate Fellow in Psychology working with the CREAR Lab. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Philosophy in Psychology, along with minors in Linguistics, Religious Studies, and Korean, and an Asian Studies certificate.

Her research interests focus on how culture, identity, and social context shape development, mental health, and access to psychological resources among children and adolescents, particularly those in underserved or marginalized communities. She is interested in understanding these experiences across diverse global settings and learning how communities support youth well-being.

In the CREAR Lab, Erin is expanding her experience with international and community-engaged research while studying how cultural values and family relationships influence mental health. She plans to pursue a career in applied mental health research that amplifies lived experiences to inform culturally grounded and community-centered programs and policies.

Research Interests

• Cultural, social, and contextual influences on development
• Child and adolescent mental health
• Access to mental health resources
• Community-engaged and international research
• Identity, belonging, and well-being
• Equity in mental health systems