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Global research requires global researchers: Opportunities and challenges for capacity-building

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 July 2026

Rebecca Zhu Open the ORCID record for Rebecca Zhu [Opens in a new window] ,
Joab Ochieng Arieda ,
Tabitha Nduku Kilonzo ,
Sachin Allums Open the ORCID record for Sachin Allums [Opens in a new window] ,
Robert Zane Sparks  and
Michael C. Frank Open the ORCID record for Michael C. Frank [Opens in a new window]
Rebecca Zhu*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, U.S.A ryz@stanford.edu sachino@stanford.edu bsparks@stanford.edu mcfrank@stanford.edu
Joab Ochieng Arieda
Affiliation:
Safe Water and AIDS Project, Kisumu, Kenya joab@swapkenya.org
Tabitha Nduku Kilonzo
Affiliation:
International Education, RTI International Nairobi; Nairobi, Kenya tabynduku@gmail.com
Sachin Allums
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, U.S.A ryz@stanford.edu sachino@stanford.edu bsparks@stanford.edu mcfrank@stanford.edu
Robert Zane Sparks
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, U.S.A ryz@stanford.edu sachino@stanford.edu bsparks@stanford.edu mcfrank@stanford.edu
Michael C. Frank
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, U.S.A ryz@stanford.edu sachino@stanford.edu bsparks@stanford.edu mcfrank@stanford.edu
*
*Corresponding author.
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Abstract

Inclusive global theories of child development require local researchers who spearhead research within their own communities. This means creating pathways for researchers from underrepresented contexts to lead projects, define priorities, and collaborate as equal partners, rather than merely act as data collectors. This capacity-building holds the promise of generating more accurate and equitable developmental science research.

Information

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 49 , 2026 , e283
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Copyright
© The Author(s), 2026. Published by Cambridge University Press

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