Substance Use

Our research aims to understand the neurobiological, psychological and behavioural underpinnings of substance use, misuse and dependence.

We research psychopharmacological mechanisms of action, acute effects, abuse potential or dependence potential, consequences of long-term use and harm-reduction. We also research potential therapeutic effects and drug / medicine development.

Our work uses state-of-the-art methods including: functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), electrophysiology (EEG), functional and structural brain imaging (fMRI), and behavioural or neuropsychological studies of substance users in order to inform public health policy and harm reduction strategies around substance use.

We use methods to measure the underlying motivations, beliefs and attitudes around substances and how they underpin substance use and abuse. This work focuses on developing psychometrically valid tools that can be applied across cultures and social groups. Additional methods and expertise include; randomised controlled trials (RCTs), ecological momentary assessment, advanced statistics and modelling, systematic reviews and meta analysis.

We also have a ‘Bar laboratory’ facility that allows us to conduct alcohol administration studies within the Psychology Department. The bar lab has been equipped to give the appearance a 'pub', increasing the ecological validity of experimental research.