Research exploring key social issues of our times by understanding the workings of the human mind

Members of the Department of Psychology conduct research that spans the discipline of psychology.

Find out more information about specific areas of interest 

Research Areas

Social psychology is the study of people in their context; in other words, how other people influence their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Key topics include social inclusion, homelessness, marginalisation, global mobility and diversity.

Researchers

  • Dr. Ronni Greenwood
  • Dr. Eric Igou
  • Dr. Elaine Kinsella
  • Dr. Anca Minescu
  • Prof. Orla Muldoon
  • Dr. Aisling O'Donnell
  • Dr. Mike Quayle
  • Dr. Jenny Roth

Research Groups

Postgraduate Programmes

Research Centres

Facilities

Clinical psychologists apply psychological theories and research to a wide range of mental, emotional, developmental and behavioural disorders. Our key areas of work and research include learning disabilities, depression and brain injuries.

Health psychologists are interested in health and illness and how psychological, social and behavioural factors influence physical health. Key areas of work in our department include the damaging effects of stress on health, how particular groups of people are most vulnerable, and the relation between personality, individual differences and health.

Researchers

  • Dr. Ann-Marie Creaven
  • Prof. Donal Fortune
  • Dr. Stephen Gallagher
  • Dr. Páraic Ó Súilleabháin
  • Dr. Patrick Ryan
  • Dr. Elaine Rogers
  • Dr. Jennifer McMahon
  • Dr. Lorraine Crawley

Research Groups

Postgraduate programmes

Facilities

Using experimental methods to explore theory and test hypotheses, experimental psychologists study the relationship between the mind and human behaviour. Key areas of our work include studying judgements and decision making, perception, memory and learning and understanding how changes in these basic human abilities impact on wellbeing and mental health.

Researchers

  • Dr. Eric Igou
  • Dr. Elaine Kinsella
  • Dr. Jenny Roth

Research Groups

Postgraduate Programmes

Facilities

Psychology Research Centre

The Centre for Social Issues Research is based in the Department of Psychology. Members of the Centre are interested in issues such as social support, social inclusion and exclusion, prejudice and discrimination, and their relationship to health and well-being. The aim of the Centre is to promote theoretically informed and methodologically sound innovative social research that addresses contemporary social issues and informs social policy.

Research Colloquia Series

The Department's research colloquia takes place during term time, usually Friday afternoon at 1pm. Speakers include international and national invited guests and UL-based researchers. All students and staff are welcome to attend.