Meet the New Managing Editors: Zoe Moscovici

Exciting news: Sex and Psychology is expanding! Join us in extending a warm welcome to Zoe Moscovici, our newest team member. Zoe’s arrival this week marks an important step in advancing our mission to provide you with science-based sex education. We’re thrilled to have her on board as we continue bringing you evidence-based sexual health information!

Zoe is a 3rd year PhD student in Gender Studies at Indiana University Bloomington. Originally from Philadelphia, Zoe is deeply immersed in her roles as a graduate research assistant at the Kinsey Institute and the Editorial Assistant for the Journal of Sex Research. With a research focus on sex work, vulvovaginal pain, communication, and disability studies, Zoe is passionate about translating esoteric academic information about sex into relatable content for a broader audience. We look forward to working with Zoe at Sex and Psychology!

Q: What sparked your initial interest in sex research, and how did you decide to pursue it as a career path? 

A: My fascination with sex research began when I first learned about the concept of sex. Coming from a family of researchers, it felt natural to ask questions and seek deeper understanding of everything around me. The taboo nature of the topic made it hard to find information, which made it all the more intriguing! The more I delved into it, the more I realized its endless complexity and engagement. Sex is relevant to nearly everything and everyone. Choosing a career in sex research was an easy decision for me, as I knew it would be a field that would continuously evolve, challenge, and interest me.

Q: Working as a graduate research assistant at the Kinsey Institute must be fascinating. Can you share a memorable experience or project you’ve been involved in during your time there? 

A: Working at the Kinsey Institute has been really interesting, especially amidst the challenges of state legislation blocking public funding for our research. Despite the logistical obstacle, it’s been really inspiring to witness the amazing community support for sex research. It reinforces the value and significance of our work, and keeps us motivated to persevere and innovate in our field.  I also just have amazing mentors and colleagues, and it is so wonderful to learn from people who are so passionate and dedicated.

Q: Can you tell us a little bit more about your research interests and what it is that excites you about these topics? 

A: My research interests focus on sex work, vulvovaginal pain, and disability studies. I find that people dealing with these issues in their everyday lives often struggle to receive accurate and compassionate sexual health care. I am deeply invested in debunking medical myths to better educate doctors on how to best approach these critical issues.

Q: In your opinion, what is the most important thing people should know about the field of sex research, and how can it positively impact society? 

A: The more knowledge we have about sex, the more power we possess. Ignoring the topic doesn’t negate its presence in our lives. Nearly everyone is affected by or experiences sex in some way. Our research aims to prepare people with information for better experiences, and often focuses on preventing negative sexual experiences that might lead to pain, trauma, or disease.

Q: What made you want to get involved with Sex and Psychology? 

A: I am passionate about translating esoteric academic information about sex into relatable and understandable content for young people. I think sex research unearths some amazing information, but many people don’t have total access to it even if they have a lot of interest in the topic.  I see my role as a “translator” of sex research to the public, and I believe Sex and Psychology aligns perfectly with this goal.

Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of being a student and researcher? 

A: Apart from my academic work, I am committed to social justice, particularly in food security, housing accessibility, and community building. Living in cooperative housing the past few years has allowed me to integrate these values into my daily life which makes me really happy. I also enjoy practicing yoga and spending time with my cat, Sunny.

Q: Where can folks find you? 

Instagram: @zoe_thesexologist

Twitter/X: @zmoscovici 

Image Credits: Photos provided by Zoe Moscovici