Webster Vienna Expands Psychology Research with Dr. Gerulf Rieger and New Laboratory

Webster Vienna Private University (WVPU) welcomed Dr. Gerulf Rieger as a new associate professor of Psychology.  

A leading expert in sexual arousal and orientation — its development, organization and impact on individuals' lives — Rieger brings decades of research experience to Webster Vienna’s Psychology Department. 

Last semester, Rieger taught Webster Vienna’s course on Human Sexuality, where students explored scientific and psychological perspectives on sexual behavior.

"Without our sexual orientation, humans would not be able to find partners, mate, give birth and raise children. It has a tremendous impact on our biology and psychology,” Rieger said.

In the fall, he will teach Biopsychology, providing an in-depth look at the biological foundations of behavior and mental processes. He joins the faculty as an associate professor this semester, when he will open a new research lab on campus. 

“In our lab, we will focus on objective measures of sexual arousal and orientation. We want to go beyond what people say; we want to understand both their body and mind. With the help of students, we will build the lab, recruit participants, analyze data and come closer to the truth of our sexuality,” Rieger said. 

Rieger, one of the most cited scholars in the field with more than 4,550 citations, has worked on research funded by federal institutions, including the National Institute of Health and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. His studies have been published in “Developmental Psychology,” “Journal of Personality and Social Psychology,” “Psychological Science” and “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.” He serves as Associate Editor for “Archives of Sexual Behavior,” a leading journal in the field of sexuality research. 

"Being involved in excellent research will make students think analytically, critically and independently. These are rare and highly sought after qualities, providing students with skills needed both in the academic world and industry,” Rieger said. 

The professor holds an MSc in Biological Anthropology from the University of Zurich, and earned his PhD in Personality Psychology from Northwestern University in Illinois in the United States.  
 
At Webster Vienna, the Psychology program integrates scientific, philosophical, experimental and theoretical approaches, equipping students with problem-solving, analytical and persuasive communication skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. Rieger’s expertise, research and enthusiasm for teaching make him an invaluable addition to the WVPU faculty.