My research interests broadly encompass all aspects of human psychopharmacology, stress and eating behaviours. My PhD thesis investigated the metabolic, cerebral haemodynamic and cognitive effects of polyphenols in young and ageing human cohorts. Here, I assessed whether the vasodilatory capacity of the stilbene polyphenol resveratrol to overcome the cognitive deficits associated with mild and moderate hypoxia.

Since taking my lectureship up at UWS, I have started a new project investigating the olfactory benefits of essential oils (particularly Citrus Limonum) during high cognitive stress. In addition, I am also currently investigating the impact of stress and preservative cognition on eating behaviours and the licensing behaviours.

I have recently completed a project in collaboration with researchers from the University of Leeds, where we piloted the impact of state and trait levels of preservative cognition (characterised by rumination & worry) when in the presence of an acknowledged behavioural economic (nudge) tactic. Our article is currently under review for publication and we currently working on the follow up investigation into preservative cognition and self-control.

In addition, in collaboration with colleagues in the Strategic Hub for Psychology, Social Work, Health Behaviours and Addictions, we are currently assessing the behavioural sequence of individuals when breaching their dietary intentions and the licensing of these eating behaviours.