About AK Behavioral Sciences

AK Behavioral Sciences is an independent consultancy founded by Justin O’Rourke to help life sciences organizations understand the human factors that shape decisions, relationships, and scientific exchange. Justin applies behavioral science to practical challenges in Medical Affairs and Field Medical, from interpreting stakeholder perspectives to communicating evidence and developing team capabilities.

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Justin is a researcher with a PhD in business psychology alongside master's degrees in industrial-organizational psychology and business administration. His background connects the study of individual behavior with an understanding of organizations and business strategy. That interdisciplinary perspective informs how he approaches a challenge: examining the people, relationships, and organizational conditions that influence what happens in practice.

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His doctoral research examined physicians’ trust in Medical Science Liaisons and their stated willingness to act on the MSL's scientific information. This work informs a broader interest in how healthcare professionals evaluate expertise, judge the credibility of a source, and decide whether information should inform patient care.

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Research is central to the practice's approach. AK Behavioral Sciences draws on relevant evidence, considers its strengths and limitations, and interprets what it means for an organization’s specific circumstances.  Its advisory, research, measurement, and capability-building work helps leaders and teams integrate behavioral insights into strategy and execution.