Lines of research?

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So far, my research experience and publications have fallen into two different areas, which are pretty distinct--they both deal with the same population but one is very behavioral while the other is very interpersonal/socio-emotional. One is definitely more of my main area of personal interest and where much of my research background lies while the other is an interesting area that I sort of "fell into" in grad school and enjoy. I've had pretty good luck publishing in both (knock on wood) thus far. Even if I don't persue the area I "fell into" further--not sure if I will or not at this point, as I'm headed to different school in the fall--I'll still have a decent slate of publications in the area (depending on how our recent submissions fare, likely something in the 4-6 range, plus some smaller encyclopedia entries and similar things, etc).

I know that research focus is generally key, especially when applying for faculty jobs, so how do you manage having publications in two areas without appearing "unfocused"--or can you?

Thanks.

Originally Posted by futureapppsy2

So far, my research experience and publications have fallen into two different areas, which are pretty distinct--they both deal with the same population but one is very behavioral while the other is very interpersonal/socio-emotional. One is definitely more of my main area of personal interest and where much of my research background lies while the other is an interesting area that I sort of "fell into" in grad school and enjoy. I've had pretty good luck publishing in both (knock on wood) thus far. Even if I don't persue the area I "fell into" further--not sure if I will or not at this point, as I'm headed to different school in the fall--I'll still have a decent slate of publications in the area (depending on how our recent submissions fare, likely something in the 4-6 range, plus some smaller encyclopedia entries and similar things, etc).

I know that research focus is generally key, especially when applying for faculty jobs, so how do you manage having publications in two areas without appearing "unfocused"--or can you?

Thanks.

Well it helps that the areas are related. I think if you explain it on an interview in the same way that you explained it here, it wouldn't really be a problem. Tell them the story about how you "fell into" the area, as long as there are no negative aspects to the story. I managed to get an academic job, and I have two very distinct (unrelated) lines of research. If you are good at telling the story, and your story makes sense, I think there isn't a problem here.

I'm assuming you didn't sleep with a grant reviewer or journal editor or anything like that to "fall into" this area