I have a diverse range of research interests, but I aim to focus my efforts in the following areas:

1. Adolescent Health and Wellbeing

My PhD research examined the impact of early adolescent bullying victimisation on emotional wellbeing, psychosocial, and academic outcomes, which sparked an ongoing interest in adolescence as a critical developmental stage. Since then, research projects I have conducted with honours students have explored how cyberbullying influences learning readiness and academic achievement, the role of friendships on resilience, and the ways in which school belonging can moderate the relationship between cognitive engagement and a growth mindset. Given that schools play a pivotal role in adolescent health, wellbeing, and development, I am particularly passionate about research focused on prevention and early intervention within educational settings.

2. Psychology Teaching and Learning 

As an Education Specialist in the School of Psychology, I am interested in the pedagogy of psychology, particularly in the design and evaluation of assessment methods. My focus so far has been on reviewing the evidence-base on best practice guidelines for assessment methods. With the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), I am also exploring how psychology educators and students can thoughtfully integrate AI into assessment methods while maintaining a strong emphasis on developing essential skills and knowledge that will support students’ future success. 

3. How Nihilistic Beliefs Impact Psychosocial Wellbeing

Recently, I have been collaborating with colleagues, honors students, and research interns to explore the impact of nihilistic beliefs on various aspects of mental health and wellbeing. Our research focuses on understanding the relationship between nihilism and wellbeing, grief, social support, and life decisions. Given that the intersection of nihilism and psychology remains underexplored, our goal is to shed light on how the growing prevalence of nihilistic beliefs is shaping individuals and communities.

PhD Scholarship Opportunities - Commencing 2027

1. Understanding the needs of neurodivergent children undergoing cancer treatment (SRTSR0599)

Approximately 1 in 6 Australian children are diagnosed with a learning disorder, ADHD, or autism. Neurodivergent children may experience the world differently than their neurotypical peers and these differences can make experiences of healthcare and hospitals particularly challenging. For example, noise, light, and an unfamiliar environment may make a hospital ward an overwhelming and overstimulating environment for neurodivergent children. However, little is known about the adjustments required to meet the needs of neurodivergent children with cancer. This is critical to support children and their families and to ensure they receive equitable cancer care.

This project seeks to understand the needs of neurodivergent children with cancer, their families, and their healthcare providers through qualitative interviews and focus groups. Reflexive thematic analysis will be used to identify common themes and diverse perspectives that will inform recommendations for paediatric oncology care.

Apply Here - Adelaide University Signature Research Theme (SRT) Scholarship Round (EOIs due 30 September 2026)

2. The impact of school bullying on financial decision making and financial resilience (SRTSR0384)

School bullying is known for its effects on mental health and education, yet little is known about how these experiences influence financial decision-making later. This interdisciplinary PhD project integrates behavioural finance and psychology to investigate whether bullying shapes financial trust, confidence, risk-taking, investment decisions and financial resilience. Using surveys, behavioural experiments and decision-making tasks, the project will examine the psychological mechanisms linking early social experiences to financial behaviour and explore whether targeted behavioural interventions improve financial decisions. 

The research aims to advance understanding of the origins of financial behaviour while generating evidence to inform policymakers, financial educators and community organisations seeking to strengthen long-term financial wellbeing. Applicants with backgrounds in finance, psychology, economics, behavioural science or related disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Apply Here - Adelaide University Signature Research Theme (SRT) Scholarship Round (EOIs due 30 September 2026)