Kyrenia, Cyprus
I'm a research psychologist with a simple belief: the best science is both rigorously empirical and deeply humane. My work uses immersive VR, computational methods, and naturalistic observation to decode how people connect and coordinate from the nuances of gaze dynamics in crowds to the mechanisms of empathy and body ownership. But the lab isn't an island. My parallel passion is ensuring the world of science is inclusive and accessible. I co-founded the Academic Studies team at the Queer Cyprus Association, bridging the gap between empirical research and LGBTQ+ advocacy. I believe diverse perspectives don't just create fairer science, they create better science. My Expertise & Focus: Research: Designing controlled environmental studies & VR paradigms to investigate social cognition and proxemics. Technical Skills: Python (Pandas, NumPy), R, ELAN (behavioral micro-coding), VR development, and statistical modeling. Advocacy: Leading initiatives to promote health resources, inclusive practices, and psychological support for marginalized communities. My Journey: My path hasn't been linear. My previous experiences have given me a unique perspective on human motivation and group dynamics, which I now channel into rigorous scientific research. I hold an MSc in Applied Cognitive Psychology from Utrecht University, where I graduated with research on how virtual body ownership influences the extended self. I'm currently seeking a PhD position to further explore the intricacies of human social behavior. My long-term goal is to follow in the footsteps of scientists like Hank Green: conducting meaningful research and translating its wonder and impact for a broader public audience. Let's connect if you're interested in: Computational Social Science & VR Research Science Communication and Public Engagement LGBTQ+ Advocacy in STEM Ethical AI and Behavioral Data Open to: PhD opportunities, research collaborations, and science communication projects.
Teaching Couse: General Psychology (PSKL100) | Psychological Science (PSYC 104)
- Selected among 9 interns for intensive program at EMU’s leading forensic psychology lab - Research Focus: Motivational drivers of deception in eyewitness testimony - Extending prior VR eyewitness work (EAPL 2025) through a motivational lens
As an Intern at Civic Space, I supported our team’s editorial workflow by researching and drafting content, updating and enhancing our archives to improve accessibility, and coordinating logistics for the civiCON 2025 conference. During my internship, I refined my project management skills, sharpened my attention to detail, and learned how to bring community-focused programs from concept to reality.
I undertook a university-based research internship focusing on gaze behavior under the expert supervision of Dr. Roy. I was responsible for designing and implementing research protocols, conducting analyses, and ensuring the project's alignment with academic standards. This experience helped me further develop my expertise in independent research, critical thinking, and collaboration within an academic setting.
Under the leadership of Assistant Professor Pelin Karakuş Akalın, I gained experience in qualitative and quantitative data entry, literature review, and learnt about topics such as photovoice, cognitive mapping and implicit sexism.
Mentored students in upper-division courses: Physiological Psychology (PSKL370) and Social Statistics I (PSKL116).