What is your role and what does it involve?
I am a psychologist working as a Senior Research Technical Professional (RTP) in the Department of Psychology and Human Development - probably the longest job title I’ve had in my career!My role is wonderfully varied. I run and often design services to support students and staff throughout their research journey, manage resources, and also carry out my own research. I occasionally teach research methods, programming, and open research practices to both students and staff. I am also the lead of the Special Interest Group on Methods, Approaches, and Provision in Psychology using Smart-data (MAPPS).
How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?
I’ve been at UCL for six years - though it only feels real when you see it written down! Before joining UCL, I held a mix of teaching, research and administrative roles at various universities across the UK. Just before UCL, I worked at London South Bank University and before that, I was based in Edinburgh working as a Research Assistant and Teaching Fellow. And going further back - if you were out in Edinburgh around 2013 or 2014 and ordered a cocktail on George Street, there’s a chance I made it for you!What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?
On a personal level, maintaining a work-life balance with two very demanding dogs, Lady Barbara and Miss Mabel, who take up most of my time (and yes, I want a third one).Professionally, I am most proud of the impact of my work (mental health of neurodivergent children and young people) has had and how it contributed to a more inclusive and equitable research and practice in the area.
I am also proud of my involvement in shaping international research practices through the Principles of Open Science Monitoring led by UNESCO and the (OSMI).
Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of your to-do list
I am currently involved in many projects, but top of my to-do list is the establishment of a new research lab at the Institute of Education (Ioe) - a joint effort with senior leadership and academic staff to create space to support high-quality, innovative research and continue breaking barriers.I am also developing an Open Research Practice Community at Ioe (reach out if you’re interested in joining). After years of training students and staff on open research practices, it’s time to build a sustainable community!
Lastly, I’m working on a piece of work led by Professor Julie Dockrell, focusing on cognitive development in stunted children in low-and middle-income countries. I am particularly interested in the socio-emotional development aspects and the role of context.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
It’s getting serious! Let’s give it a go:Album: Florence and the Machine - How Big How Blue How Beautiful.
Film: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
Novel: Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami or honestly, anything by Murakami.
Extra: If you enjoy stories about travelling, literature and coffee, read Patti Smith’s memoir M Train.
What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?
I love a dad joke; the punchline is often so obvious it’s hilarious. Here’s once I heard recently:What kind of cat should you never trust?
A cheetah!
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
Oh, this is tough - but I would say the following:- Stevie Nicks
- David Attenborough
- Haruki Murakami
What advice would you give your younger self?
Everyone has their own timeline. Don’t compare your journey to others - there’s no formula for success, no matter what people say. What works for one person won’t necessarily work for you, and that’s okay! Trust your path. Things fall into place in their own time. As the saying goes; good things come to those who wait!Also, take up space. Own your voice. You don’t need permission to be seen!
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I think there’s many different things that would actually surprise people!- I am certified in glass fussing
- I took dance lessons for 10 years
- I love upcycling old furniture
- I write music; there’s songs out there that I’ve written
And the list goes on and on...
What is your favourite place?
I don’t think I have a favourite place, more like a collection of them. Musselburgh Beach in Edinburgh holds some of my best UK memories. Then there’s Athens and finally Sicily. I am a complete sucker for Sicilian food and wine!- University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT (0) 20 7679 2000
