How to Initiate Research

The MU Child Development Lab (CDL) welcomes researchers from across the University of Missouri as well as colleagues from other colleges and universities who are interested in conducting research with young children in an applied early childhood setting. The CDL supports research that advances knowledge in child development, education, health, and related fields while maintaining a strong commitment to the well-being of the children and families in our program.

Researchers interested in conducting a study at the CDL should begin by contacting the CDL Director to discuss their proposed project and its alignment with the lab’s mission and daily operations. Proposed studies must receive appropriate institutional approvals and be reviewed to ensure that research activities are developmentally appropriate and minimally disruptive to the classroom environment.