Vernon Woodley

My name is Vernon A. Woodley and I am currently completing my PhD in Sociology at the University of Iowa with emphasis in Social Psychology and Complex Organizations.  I am originally from a tiny Caribbean island called St.Kitts.  Prior to graduate school at the University of Iowa, I completed a BA in Cross-Cultural Studies with a minor in Philosophy from Divine Word College. 

My research interests include social psychology, social networks analysis, adolescent sexuality, and race and gender inequality in work organizations.  I also have training and experience in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.   

My dissertation investigates the effects of personal social networks and cultural beliefs about gender on women in organizations that utilize self-managing project teams.  This study is of particular importance to sociologists because many work organizations are increasingly utilizing self-managing project teams. However, there has been limited attention given to the impact of this change in how work is organized on women and minorities. Moreover, the extant literature has thus far produced conflicting results, suggesting a need for further research.  I conducted a six month, multi-method study (survey, observation and semi-structured interviews) in the investments department of multinational insurance company.  Preliminary results indicate that women in project teams have higher income and are more satisfied with their jobs; however, significant gender differences persist despite the positive effects of project teams.