Because both have run active labs and are actively involved in research, their arrival here will open new opportunities to get both graduate students and undergraduates involved in cutting edge research, Schacter said.
"Having two people whose work compliments each other's will make this an intellectually exciting time here in developmental psychology," he said.
According to Spelke, her decision last week to accept tenure here is partly based on the fact that she will be able to continue her research. She said she is eager to collaborate with Carey on new research.
"The psychology department at Harvard is an extremely exciting place now, and to join with Susan Carey is a great opportunity," Spelke said.
--Marc J. Ambinder contributed to the reporting and writing of this story.