• Psychology
• Business Engagement & Innovation

Business Engagement & Innovation

Our Work

We work across four cross-cutting research themes: 

• Innovations in Translational Mental Health – Covers the full spectrum of mental health research, from basic science around the (molecular) epidemiology of mental health conditions, to understanding fundamental mechanisms (e.g., rumination, anhedonia), to developing and testing new interventions (e.g. psychedelics, digital health innovations), and improving access to mental health care. 

• Gender, Health, and Social Wellbeing – Emphasises the intersection of gender, health and wellbeing, with a focus on mental health (perinatal mental health, men's mental health) and the impact of female reproductive transitions and events (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause) on health and social wellbeing outcomes. This theme also incorporates gender-based disparities in health and social outcomes, including violence against women and girls. It promotes gender equity and justice. 

• Social Networks and Group Behaviour – Focuses on the psychological underpinnings of social relationships, social networks, and group behaviour. This theme delves into social identities, intergroup dynamics, social movements, and the evolution of social behaviours, providing a deeper understanding of how human and animal social structures adapt and evolve. 

• Climate Adaptation and Environmentally Sustainable Behaviour – Investigates how psychological factors influence environmental behaviour, climate action, and sustainability efforts, as well as the impact of such behaviours on mental health and wellbeing. This is a burgeoning areas of strength for the department that aligns well to the strengths of the wider university, and is therefore an area for future development. 

Our department is nationally recognised for its expertise in psychopharmacology, cognitive testing, behavioural analytics, and AI-driven psychological data science. We deliver high-impact collaboration through: 

• Contract research and consultancy with businesses, public sector bodies, and NGOs 

• IP generation and commercialisation, including pioneering work in psychedelic therapies and digital mental health 

• Executive education and CPD, through our innovative CEDAR-Create training portfolio 

As we scale up our externally facing activities, we are committed to building a culture of innovation that supports our staff, meets partner needs, and delivers lasting societal benefit.

Co-leads & Contact Info

Opportunities & Expertise

Our Engagement Opportunities

• Contract Research & Consultancy
• Collaborative R&D (KTP, Innovate UK, etc.)
• CPD / Executive Education
• Student placements / internships
• Licensing / IP / spin-outs
• Advisory & expert roles

Our Thematic Expertise

• Innovations in Translational Mental Health
• Gender, Health & Social Wellbeing
• Social Networks & Group Behaviour
• Climate Adaptation & Sustainable Behaviour