We are proud to share that Maria Leniarska, a researcher affiliated with the University of Economics and Human Sciences in Warsaw (UEHS), has been awarded the prestigious ISSID Early Career Award, granted by the International Society for the Study of Individual Differences. This honor is reserved for early-career researchers who have made significant contributions to the field of individual differences.
In an interview with us, Maria expressed her joy and appreciation:
“The ISSID award brought me great joy and satisfaction. It is a tremendous honor and a meaningful form of recognition. I truly believe that acknowledging young researchers in this way can make a real difference in their career development.”
Although she is currently awaiting the defense of her PhD thesis, Maria continues her academic work at full speed. She is currently conducting a research project exploring the relationship between narcissism and gratitude, while also preparing for key scientific events, including the upcoming ISSID conference in Vienna and the Polish Social Psychology Association Congress – the latter co-organized this year by UEHS.
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring young researchers, she said:
“This may not be a typical piece of advice, but for me, the most important factor on this path is the people I work with. I’ve been incredibly lucky to have a wise and supportive supervisor and a safe academic environment—free from overload or unhealthy competition. I’m surrounded by wonderful colleagues who are also my friends. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. Just the fact that I get to work with such good people gives me the motivation to keep going. I wish everyone the chance to find such an environment.”
We warmly congratulate Maria on this outstanding achievement and wish her continued success in her academic journey!