My research expertise focuses on two areas of academic interest:

1. Language processing: My research in this area focuses on inferences made during the reading of sentences, and on the processing of individual words. I used experimental paradigms as well as eye tracking and EEG technology to complete this research.

2. Psychology of Fan Culture: My research in this area focuses on how and why people chose to interact with fictional characters. This includes evaluation of benefits to psychological wellbeing of activities such as attending fan conventions or taking part in cosplay.

I currently have a broad range of research projects underway, these include:

• Establishing the benefits of a supportive context when processing fictional pseudowords, such as “jedi”.
• Considering the psychological factors which encourage people to develop and maintain one-sided relationships with fictional characters.
• Assessing the psychological benefits of engaging in cosplay and related events.

I intend to continue to pursue these two strands of research whilst addressing the common theme of “fiction”. In language processing I aim to further assess readers’ knowledge and understanding of fictional words to develop an understanding of whether these words are unique or specialised. In relation to fan culture I plan to establish an evidence base to determine the benefits of cosplay, this evidence base may then be linked to social prescribing with cosplay being recognised as a beneficial cultural activity for certain groups.

I have experience of using eye tracking and experimental methodologies to deliver applied research projects for local government, including evaluation of road safety campaigns.  I also delivered workshops on the applied uses of information framing to corporate delegates.

Marketing, advertising and branding

Lobbyists and associated companies

Publishers of fiction based in pseudo-real locations

NHS Research Scotland

Local authorities (e.g. Renfrewshire Council or Glasgow City Council)