Psychology Research

Established in 1938, Psychology at UNE is the third oldest Department of Psychology in Australia.

Our research has a strong tradition in supporting our regional and rural communities. UNE Psychology received a ranking of 5 (well above world standard) in the most recent Excellence in Research for Australia, Australia’s national research evaluation framework.

Our Academics have diverse research interests with expertise in a wide range of disciplines and areas including environmental psychology, clinical psychology, neuro and health psychology, mental health in rural populations, learning and behavioural genetics, EEG and neuroscience, emotional intelligence and positive psychology. Prospective Honours, Masters, or PhD students may seek supervision in our areas of research expertise. Information about the research of individual academic staff members can be found on the Psychology Staff page.

Research groups

    Psychosocial Health and Wellbeing focusing on Rural Communities

  • Researchers in this group have a particular focus on understanding the mental health and wellbeing of those living in rural populations, as well as the general population, across the lifespan and in informing the delivering of psychological interventions.
  • Environmental Psychology and Climate Change

  • Researchers in this groups focus on understanding problems related to environmental sustainability and helping individuals and communities adapt to climate change. In particular, projects examine the impacts of climate change and natural hazards on wellbeing and how to build resilience
  • Positive Psychology, Emotion and Social Functioning

  • This research group explores topics related to individual and groups processes, including self-compassion, emotional intelligence, personality and organisational and social psychology
  • Neurobiology, Learning and Behaviour

  • Research in this area covers a range of topics related to the brain, including topics in neuroscience, neuropsychology, biopsychology and EEG, as well as behavioural genetics, cognitive psychology, learning and behaviour.

Research tools and resources