About my current job
I undertake research, teach undergraduate and masters students, and supervise doctoral research students. My research focuses on intergroup relations and prejudice-reduction. I examine which forms of intergroup contact best reduce prejudice, how and why they do so, and what consequences they have for intergroup relations. I am also interested in the role of personality and nostalgia in the study of intergroup relations, the impact of contact beyond improved intergroup relations, and perceptions of cross-group romantic relationships. I am currently involved in funded research projects with the British Academy, European Research Council, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, and Special European Union Programmes Body. I also engage in public understanding of psychology; for example I was involved in a 2020 Channel 4 documentary, "The School That Tried To End Racism' and was interviewed by 'The Times' and ITV's 'Good Morning Britain.'
Something important I learned during my time at EP
During my time at EP, I learnd the value of support and collaboration. I was part of a large research group and there were several of us who started our doctorate within a year of each other. We were able to support each other through the various challenges that doing a DPhil entails, providing sympathy and kindness over a coffee or glass of wine. We were also able to bounce ideas off each other, and learn from each others' methodological, analytic, writing and time management skills. Support and collaboration are such an important part of academia, and the experiences I had as a PhD student with my fellow lab mates continue to shape the way I work today.
How did my education influence my career path?
When I began my DPhil at EP, although I had a passion for social psychology, I very much lacked confidence in my ideas and abilities. I was incredibly nervous about public speaking, and even asking a question in a seminar, or simply talking to a colleague about my plans and ideas. I would get very tongue tied and anxious. My education at EP really helped to build my confidence. I had opportunities to meet and discuss research with top academics from within the school but also from all over the world. Through this, I gradually became better able to develop and articulate my ideas. I began my DPhil not being convinced I had the aptitude to become an academic, but finished my DPhil with confidence, a clear set of ideas and a strong ambition to undertake academic research.
