PSiX welcomes postdoc Daniel Yonas

The Purpose Science and innovation Exchange (PSiX) team continues to grow with the addition of Daniel Yonas, Ph.D., as its newest postdoctoral researcher.

Yonas earned his Ph.D. in psychology from Columbia University, where he studied how children and adults reason about intent, harm, and prejudice across racial and social group boundaries. His research has engaged thousands of participants across child and adult populations, using experimental, survey, and mixed methods designs to advance understanding of social and moral cognition in intergroup contexts.

Yonas has published and presented widely on moral reasoning and intergroup processes, received competitive fellowships and teaching awards, and led diverse research teams as both a mentor and collaborator. His broader program of work integrates moral psychology, developmental science, and education to examine how people understand harm and responsibility in ways that shape equity and social outcomes.

“Daniel’s deep commitment to understanding how young people make sense of intent, harm, and fairness enriches the vision of PSiX,” said Sarah Espinel, director of research at PSiX. “We’re thrilled to welcome Daniel to the team and look forward to the insight and rigor he will undoubtedly contribute to our work.”

Yonas earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in educational psychology from the University of Virginia.

The Purpose Science and innovation Exchange is housed in the Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research at Cornell Human Ecology. PSiX unites the rigorous study and lived experience of purpose to forge pathways to discovery and knowledge sharing. Founded in strategic alliance with Purpose Commons, PSiX’s work brings together researchers, community organizations, and policymakers to develop evidence-based solutions to real-world challenges while deepening understanding of purpose as a transformative force in people’s lives.