The James Liu Memorial Award is endowed in memory of Professor James Liu. The Award is made possible through the generous funding of College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Australia, and School of Psychology, Massey University, New Zealand.

Background

The Small Group Meeting (SGM), titled “Social Psychology in Mental Health Studies: Showcase of Postgraduate Research in the Asia-Pacific Region” and held at James Cook University on 27-28 June 2024, was James’ last engagement with the Asian Association of Social Psychology (AASP). The SGM was proudly supported by AASP and was tailored for postgraduate researchers investigating the relationship between social, political and cultural factors and mental health. As a keynote speaker, James delivered an inspiring keynote speech on global consciousness. James offered powerful insights into the critical importance of global consciousness in a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape. James spent significant time interacting with students in attendance at the event.

In 2015, James was appointed Head of School of Psychology at Massey University. He brought a strong background of applied research to the position as well as research and management leadership. He generously shared his knowledge and expertise with colleagues and students and was unfailingly committed to the success of Massey University, staff and graduates.

Throughout his academic career, James dedicated considerable time to mentoring young scholars in ASEAN countries. He empowered these scholars to contribute to the global body of knowledge by addressing local challenges with context-specific solutions, ultimately driving sustainable development in their nations. His efforts helped bridge the knowledge gap, promoted diversity of thought in global research, and fostered international collaboration, leading to more holistic and innovative solutions to global challenges.

To honor James’ support to the next generation of researchers in ASEAN countries and his outstanding contributions of to the discipline of social psychology, the Award will recognize and support early career researchers, including PhD candidates and researchers who have completed their PhDs within the past five years, who are conducting innovative research into culture in psychology, and/or wellbeing in ASEAN countries. These include Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Brunei, Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the James Liu Memorial Award are:

  • To honor James’ legacy and contributions in advancing knowledge in psychology and wellbeing in ASEAN societies;
  • To encourage and support early career researchers  in ASEAN countries and globally, who are pursuing research on culture in psychology and/or wellbeing; and
  • To foster innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing in these critical areas of research and action.

Eligibility Criteria

The award will be open to:

  • Members of AASP; AND
  • PhD candidates of ASEAN origins currently enrolled in accredited institutions in ASEAN countries or other regions OR researchers working in ASEAN countries who have completed their PhDs within the last five years; AND
  • Applicants whose research focuses on culture in psychology and/or wellbeing.

Award Details

  • Number of Awards: One award will be presented bi-annually at the AASP bi-annual conference.
  • Award Amount: The award will include a monetary prize of AUD $1,500 and a certificate of recognition.
  • Selection Process: The selection committee will consist of one representative each from James Cook University, Massey University and an ASEAN university. The committee will evaluate applications based on the significance and impact of their contribution to research into culture and/or wellbeing in psychology.

Application Process

  • The award is open to both self-nominations and nominations by others. In the case of nomination by others, the nominator should obtain the nominee’s consent and collaborate with them to complete the application process.
  • A nomination form must be submitted, which can also be accessed below.
  • Applications will be accepted until 28 February of the AASP conference year.

Award recipients will be notified by 31 March of the AASP conference year and announced at the AASP conference.

James Liu Memorial Award Nomination FormDownload