As of 2025[update], he holds the title of professor emeritus at the College of Education and Human Development, University of Minnesota.

[3] From 1977 to 1985, he served on the faculty of Harvard University, where he held the position of Norman Tishman Associate Professor of Psychology.

Cicchetti's research focuses on developing an integrative developmental theory to explain human psychological functioning.

[6] His work spans multiple domains, including developmental psychopathology,[7] the effects of child maltreatment,[8] neuroplasticity, and sensitive periods.

[12] Additionally, his research examines attachment relationships, self-representation disorders across the lifespan,[13] and multilevel perspectives on resilience.