Stellar Psychology

Lead Researchers: Cognitive Sciences: Associate Professor Carolyn Semmler, Dr Rachel Searston, Dr Rachel Stephens and Dr Anastasia Ejova.  Clinical and Health Psychology: Associate Professor Melissa Oxlad and Professor Deborah Turnbull

The Stellar Psychology team comprises academics, students, and research interns from the School of Psychology in collaboration with researchers from other fields such as architecture, agricultural science, education, engineering and advanced materials. 

Selected topics:  

1. Measurement and experimentation to enhance situational awareness in extreme environments; 
2. Mediation of the stress response and cognitive functioning through exposure to plants and optimal lighting configurations; 
3. Exploration of the biophilia hypothesis and harnessing the overview effect;
4. Selecting the best people for space travel and habitation.

Methods:

1. Qualitative research 
2. Quantitative research, including experiments 
3. Simulations and use of augmented realities 
4. Biometrics 
5. Reviews