Brain Research and Interdisciplinary Neuroscience (BRAIN) Section

Our section unites an interdisciplinary team of researchers dedicated to advancing our understanding of the brain, mind, and behaviour. We explore how mental processes—such as decision-making, perception, learning, memory, emotion, motor skills, and social interactions—emerge from the intricate workings of the brain across typical and atypical development and the lifespan.

About our research

By integrating psychology and neuroscience, we investigate the biological, genetic, and neural underpinnings of behaviour, as well as individual differences in traits and mental health conditions. Our work spans fundamental research and cutting-edge applications, including human-robot interaction, gaming, sustainability, education, and the gut-brain axis.

We leverage advanced methodologies, blending experimental rigour with state-of-the-art tools such as neurostimulation, eye tracking, EEG, fMRI, and behavioural genetics. Our innovative research translates into meaningful impact across diverse sectors, including education, healthcare, artificial intelligence, public policy, and the gaming industry.

Facilities and resources

Our researchers benefit from world-class facilities and a collaborative environment. Our well-maintained laboratories are supported by a specialised technical support and house cutting-edge technologies for experimental and computational studies.

Methods

  • Neurostimulation
  • Eye-tracking
  • EEG
  • fMRI
  • Robotics
  • Gaming research
  • Experimental and behavioural testing
  • Epidemiological causal designs
  • Behavioural genetics
  • Genome-wide association studies

Our work drives discovery and innovation at the intersection of neuroscience and psychology, contributing to solutions for global challenges and enriching the fields of cognitive science, education, and public health.

Meet the team

Professor Angelica Ronald

BRAIN Section Lead

In 2023 I moved to the University of Surrey as Professor of Psychology and Genetics. Here is a short bio:I studied Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford, graduating in 2000I received my PhD in Quantitative Genetics from King's College LondonMy postdoc was funded by an Autism Speaks fellowship in which I gained training in Molecular GeneticsI joi...