About Me
Dr. Jones, PhD, MS, is a Research Scientist at the Center for Health Outcomes and Population Equity (HOPE) at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Her research examines the processes by which positive emotions may protect against the development of chronic diseases. Critically, all theorized mechanistic pathways by which positive emotions are thought to lead to resilience against chronic disease (e.g., stress-buffering, engagement in adaptive health behaviors, resources building) occurs in moments and build over time, yet few studies examine these processes in natural contexts (e.g., via ecological momentary assessment/ daily diary studies/ mobile sensing). Dr. Jones' work addresses this gab by examining momentary processes in everyday life, focusing on two primary pathways: health behaviors (e.g., smoking, alcohol use, sleep) and physiological stress-processes via biomarkers (e.g., inflammation, cortisol). Through this focus on momentary processes in everyday life, her research advances the field by elucidating when, under what conditions, and what types/patterns of positive emotions are most likely to facilitate long-term resilience against chronic health conditions. Given her focus on understanding biopsychosocial processes in natural contexts, Dr. Jones has developed expertise in the use of innovative methodical and statistical techniques. Her contributions in this area inform how we can better assess intensive longitudinal data and how advanced multilevel statistical techniques can be used to examine mechanistic processes in everyday life.
Prior to joining the Center for HOPE, she earned a PhD in biobehavioral health from Penn State University and a master's degree in experimental psychology from Western Washington University. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Western Washington University. Dr. Jones was raised in California and spends her free time laughing at the antics of her husband, three children, and three cats.