John C. Flournoy, PhD
Developer Scientist, Methods Geek
I’m a principal research scientist at Pluralsight’s Developer Success Lab, where I study how software engineering teams and technologists learn and thrive. My unique perspective comes from bridging multiple disciplines:
Since 1996
- Deep methodological and empirical rigor (which has primarily meant statistical rigor to me), with particular strength in Bayesian modeling using Stan and
brmsin R - A PhD in psychology and background as a (reformed fMRI) neuroscientist, specializing in adolescent development, stress, and well-being
- Strong focus on both empirical and conceptual rigor, integrating quantitative methods with philosophical frameworks
My research approach stands out through:
- Advanced statistical modeling and uncertainty quantification across diverse data sources - from traditional surveys and experiments to incidental observational data like Jira tickets (in forthcoming work)
- Extensive experience with longitudinal data at various cadences
- Deep commitment to construct validity and philosophical foundations, shaped profoundly by works like Alexandrova’s “A Philosophy for the Science of Well-Being”.
Alexandrova, A. (2017). A philosophy for the science of well-being. Oxford university press.
I strive to be effective through this intimate dialogue between our numeric approach, our theory, and our philosophy of the phenomena of interest
