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Staff Profile

Dr Gareth Richards

Lecturer

  • Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 6529
Background

I am a Lecturer in the School of Psychology, and a member of the Centre for Behaviour and Evolution (CBE) at Newcastle University. I completed a BSc in Psychology and MSc in Research Methods in Psychology at Swansea University, a PhD in Psychology at Cardiff University, and two postdocs at the University of Cambridge.

Qualifications

  • BSc Psychology (First Class Honours), Swansea University (2008-2011)
  • MSc Research Methods in Psychology (Distinction), Swansea University (2011-2012)
  • PhD Psychology, Cardiff University (2012-2017)

Memberships

  • Centre for Behaviour and Evolution, Newcastle University
  • Advance HE (Fellow)
Research

My research aims to explore human mind and behaviour at the intersection of evolutionary psychology and biology. I have examined topics such as:

  • The effects of prenatal testosterone exposure on play preferences, handedness, and motor skill.
  • The influences of genetics and environment in twins reared apart since infancy.
  • Prenatal cortisol exposure and fluctuating asymmetry.
Teaching

I teach on the BSc (Hons) Psychology and MSc Forensic Psychology and MSc Sport & Exercise Psychology programmes, and supervises undergraduate and Masters projects. I am always happy to hear from students who are interested in working with me.

Module Lead:

  • PSY3042: Sex Differences and the Brain
  • PSY3097: Empirical Project
  • PSY8061: Advanced Research Methods for Applied Psychology A

Contributor:

  • PSY1001: Psychological Enquiry 1 - Psychological Literacy and Academic Skills
  • PSY2008: Psychological Enquiry 2: Principles of Psychology
  • PSY3048: Advanced Statistics for Empirical Psychology
Publications