Lab focus:

The Developmental Interest Group (DIG) focuses on child development. This includes those using developmental research methods, those working in developmental science, and those targeting young people for engagement activities. Child development is an essential aspect of human life, shaped and influenced by the environment. Studying child development and including young people in scientific dissemination is crucial for understanding research across the lifespan, individual contributions to broader society, industry, and economic growth, and for providing insights into policy development and change.

Research themes/ongoing projects:

Developmental research requires an ethical methodological approach that utilises strengths from across disciplines and contexts with individuals from diverse global communities. DIG’s ongoing goals aim first to facilitate collaborative (across levels, disciplines, Schools, and campuses) cross-cultural research and projects in developmental science for staff and students working with outside practitioners. Second, to provide training, support, and empowerment to others (at all stages) who have an interest in working with children (research and engagement) but don’t know where to begin. And finally, to create a network of researchers and organisational partners (including schoolteachers, nursery workers, healthcare professionals, etc.) who meet to share expertise, knowledge, and experience.

NamePosition and campus
Dr Emily Messer
(Lab Head)
Assistant Professor & Developmental Psychologist (Edinburgh campus)
Dr Mark Atkinson
(Deputy Head)
Assistant Professor & Social / Experimental Psychologist (Edinburgh campus)
Dr Pik Ki HoAssistant Professor & Cognitive Psychologist (Dubai campus)
Dr Wei Lin PohAssistant Professor & Cognitive Psychologist (Malaysia campus)
Dr Laras YuniartoAssistant Professor & Developmental Psychologist (Edinburgh campus)
Dr Rachael HulmeAssistant Professor & Experimental Psychologist (Edinburgh campus)
Ms Hiva JavadianPhD Student/ Developmental Psychologist (Edinburgh Campus)
NameDiscipline & role
Ms Rebecca DonnellyEPS PhD Student
Ms Sarah GouldingLINCS – CTISS PhD Student
Professor Helen BridleEPS Professor
Dr Elma CharalampidouEGIS Assistant Professor
Mr Lee McMahonChemistry PhD Student and Technical Service Staff
Ms Helen StocksPsychology Research Assistant
Dr Samanatha ClarkHWU Engage, Academic Liaison and Outreach Team Manager
Ms Camilla Irvine-FortescueHWU Engage, Responsible Impact Specialist
Mx Emily BrownHWU Engage, Schools Outreach Officer
Ms Emilie DufresneHWU Engage, Stem School Project Coordinator