Dr Tessa Flack

Profile

My research and teaching primarily focus on social and cognitive neuroscience, research methods and statistics, and curriculum development. I completed my PhD on the neural correlates of face perception at the University of York and York Neuroimaging Centre (YNiC), under the supervision of Professor Andy Young and Professor Tim Andrews. Afterward, I spent nearly three years at Durham University in the Department of Psychology before moving to the University of Lincoln, where I held the role of Deputy Director of Teaching and Learning. I joined the School of Psychology at Leeds in 2024.

Research interests

My research interests span face perception and recognition, as well as social and cognitive neuroscience. I focus on understanding the neural mechanisms behind face processing, particularly the relationship between how the brain represents faces and how this influences behaviour. Additionally, I am interested in the neural underpinnings of other social processes, including emotion, personality, and political beliefs.

I am also invested in pedagogical research, specifically exploring innovative teaching and assessment strategies, along with curriculum development aimed at promoting psychological literacy and global citizenship. My goal is to help prepare students for both employment and active participation in a more interconnected and complex world.

Qualifications

• PhD in Psychology - University of York, 2016
• MSc Cognitive Neuroscience - University of York, 2011
• BSc (Hons) Psychology - The Open University, 2009
• Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

Professional memberships

• Experimental Psychology Society

Student education

I teach social neuroscience and research methods within the School of Psychology, alongside supervising dissertation students and acting as an undergraduate personal tutor. As a Curriculum Redefined lecturer, I am involved in developing an innovative, imaginative, and sustainable approach to education. Through the Curriculum Redefined initiative at Leeds, we aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful and positive impact in the world.

One of my key interests in student education is improving the way research methods and statistics are taught and delivered. I am particularly interested in exploring ways to help students develop a solid understanding of these essential skills and feel confident applying them in their academic and professional journeys.