Kimberly French, an associate professor in Colorado State University’s Department of Psychology, has received the 2026 Early Career Achievement Award from the Society of Occupational Health Psychology. The award recognizes emerging researchers and professionals making important contributions to occupational health psychology.
French joined Colorado State University as a faculty member in 2023 and works as an industrial organizational psychologist. Her research focuses on how employees manage the competing pressures of work and family life, particularly how stress affects long-term health and well-being.
Her work examines several dimensions of health, including emotional, social, behavioral and physiological outcomes. A major focus of her research involves identifying practical strategies that help employees maintain healthier lifestyles while balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
Research
French’s research explores how chronic stress gradually affects the body over time.
In one recent study, she examined how repeated exposure to stressors can create psychological and physiological strain. According to the research, ongoing stress may contribute to both short-term health changes and long-term disease risk if left unmanaged.
The study also investigated how stress may spread within households, particularly between family members living in shared environments.
| Research Focus | Description |
|---|---|
| Workplace stress | Effects of chronic stress exposure |
| Family dynamics | Stress transfer between family members |
| Employee health | Emotional and physical well-being |
| Coping strategies | Managing work-life demands |
French’s findings contribute to a growing area of psychology research focused on the relationship between workplace conditions and overall health outcomes.
Award
The Early Career Achievement Award is presented by the Society of Occupational Health Psychology, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving worker health, safety and well-being.
The organization includes researchers, students, professors and workplace practitioners from multiple disciplines who study the psychological factors influencing occupational health.
The award specifically recognizes younger professionals whose research demonstrates meaningful impact within the field.
Workplace
Occupational health psychology has gained increased attention in recent years as organizations continue addressing issues such as burnout, stress management and employee wellness.
Researchers in the field examine how workplace conditions affect mental and physical health, along with strategies that may improve employee resilience and work-life balance.
French’s research aligns closely with these priorities by focusing on how individuals navigate competing demands at work and home without compromising long-term health.
Impact
As conversations surrounding employee well-being continue expanding across industries, research in occupational health psychology is becoming increasingly relevant for employers and policymakers alike.
French’s work contributes to a broader understanding of how stress develops, how it affects individuals and families, and how healthier workplace practices may help reduce long-term health risks.
The recognition from the Society of Occupational Health Psychology highlights both the growing importance of this research area and French’s early contributions to the field.
FAQs
Who received the 2026 achievement award?
CSU psychologist Kimberly French received it.
What does Kimberly French study?
She researches workplace stress and health.
What is occupational health psychology?
It studies workplace health and well-being.
When did French join CSU?
She joined Colorado State University in 2023.
What organization presented the award?
The Society of Occupational Health Psychology.