Research

Our research spans the full range of psychology and is focused on the application of psychology in the real world. We have over 50 research-active staff and a large cohort of PhD and Doctoral Clinical students who are working with a range of partners to produce research with significant positive effects across a range of areas of concern to the public.

Postgraduate research

Research culture

We have an active research culture with weekly external speaker seminars in term time open to all. 

Each research group also has regular lab meetings and there are school research thinking meetings to develop new ideas.

We have a thriving postgraduate research community with an annual PhD student research conference attended by staff and students, which gives our students experience of presenting and debating in a supportive environment. 

Research facilities

The school continues to invest in labs, equipment and software to support teaching and the work of the research groups and individuals and has three dedicated technicians who oversee and maintain the labs.

On-site we have EEG, tDCS and TMS laboratories, a baby lab, a driving simulator, psycho-physiological and eye-tracking facilities and dedicated off site access to fMRI, as well as an observation lab and extensive editing facilities.

For student project work there are bookable flexible-use experimental cubicles and sound-proof rooms. We also have two dedicated computer labs for teaching data analysis, with the computers loaded with key analysis software, these are also available for use by students outside of teaching times. 

As new equipment becomes available we are investing in portable equipment that can be used off site in real world settings. The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences houses the Surrey Sleep Research Centre with its state-of-the-art sleep laboratories and the new Innovation for Health building with a state of the art gait laboratory.

Our commitment to impact

We are committed to fostering both academic and wider impacts from our research. In addition to conducting world leading ‘basic’ research into the brain and behaviour; the School of Psychology at the University of Surrey has a proud history of producing research with applied, ‘real-world’ relevance.

Key to our success is working directly and closely with the end-users of our research. Close collaboration with these end-users means that we can work together to address the questions and challenges that face them; helping to advance knowledge for real change. 

Research funding

Funding for the work comes from research councils, charities, local government, health authorities and the private sector. 

PhD research students, smiling and discussing work.

Postgraduate research

Join our thriving research community of PhD and Doctoral Clinical students.