Research
Physical Attraction
Appearance isn’t everything. But it is almost always crucial in our first interactions with one another - and a key part of how we feel about ourselves.
My research here has sought to understand the sources of our physical preferences, their plasticity, and life histories, and what in the end this work may offer both body positivity and public health campaigns.
Laughter
Laughter isn’t just a vocal knee-jerk to a wisecrack or an anecdote, it’s at the heart of getting the ball rolling socially, and a major key to relationship development.
My research here has addressed how the act of laughing encourages us to think differently about others, and our relationships with them. Increasing the likelihood that we'll divulge sensitive personal information, and allow for deeper, more profound connections.
My work in this field has received national and international media coverage, as well as numerous academic and pop-sci citations.
Case Studies : Applied Psychology
Influencer Marketing (Tailify)
My purpose at Tailify sought to rethink and reform influencer marketing. As Senior Research Psychologist, I provided the behavioural insight to select better influencers, craft better strategies and achieve greater performance. I worked closely with a team of world-leading data scientists, product developers and engineers to create a cutting-edge AI destined to transform the influencer economy.
I write and speak about influencer marketing across various platforms, you can find more information on my media page.
Cybersecurity (Cybsafe)
Cybercrime is on the rise, and organisations large and small are seeking more and more ways to protect themselves and their employees.
My research here has addressed how cybersecurity professionals guard their companies against attack - highlighting defence gaps across cyber-awareness, behaviour, and culture indices, as well as raising concerns over the use of incentive- and punishment-based approaches.
I presented some of this work at The British Psychology Society’s Annual Conference on Defence and Security Psychology in the 21st Century (2019, London, UK).
Mental Health (NHS - IAPT)
Mental illness is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
My research here has addressed both the diagnosis and treatment of emotional disorders and has employed both qualitative and quantitative methods - from semi-structured interviews to FMRI.
Among other questions, I have investigated how individual differences impact disclosure online, and the efficacy of tDCS as a complementary treatment for depression. These projects involved wide-scale collaboration with NHS staff, as well as vulnerable patient groups.