Promoting excellence in Health Psychology

Explore our cutting-edge research at the intersection of health psychology and public health. From vaccination uptake and pain perception to breast screening engagement, our work uncovers the psychological barriers and enablers shaping health behaviours - delivering insights that drive real-world impact.

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Leading The Way

Dr Daniel Gaffiero, a Chartered Psychologist and Lecturer in Health Psychology at the University of Derby (UK), leads the Gaffiero Health Behaviour Research Group with a vision to drive meaningful, evidence-based change in the field. His leadership focuses on uncovering the psychological mechanisms that shape health behaviours, with the Group working at the intersection of psychology, healthcare, and policy. Under Dr Gaffiero’s direction, the group addresses critical public health challenges including improving engagement with cancer screening and vaccination programmes, and exploring the cognitive processes behind health-related decision-making. With a strong emphasis on applied research and interdisciplinary collaboration, the team develops practical, impactful solutions to complex health issues. Central to the Group’s ethos is putting students at the heart of its work. By actively involving students in research, mentorship and scholarly activities, the Group fosters hands-on learning and professional development. Through this approach, Dr Gaffiero is not only advancing the field of health psychology but also cultivating a new generation of psychologists equipped to lead in a rapidly evolving world.

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Insights & Updates

Empirical Research Project Conference 2025

On 15/07/25 the MSc Health and Forensic Psychology cohorts attended the annual 'Empirical Research Project' Conference. This served as an opportunity for students to present their research in a 3MT format, and listen to a range of internal and external guest speakers highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary working. Pictured are Pavel Nadlicky (Left), Karoline Podbielska (Middle), Dr Daniel Gaffiero (Right) and Pranaya Prakash (Right).

17/07/25

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Former UG Student Publishes Her MSc Thesis

Former UG Psychology Student Alicia Powell, supervised by Dr. Daniel Gaffiero, has had her work titled "Between the Lines: An Interpretation Phenomenological Analysis Exploring Injury, Mental Health and Support in Professional and Semi-Professional Football in the United Kingdom" accepted for publication in the journal Cogent Psychology (Taylor & Francis). The Gaffiero Health Behaviour Group wish to extend their congratulations to Alicia for this fantastic outcome, and wish her the very best for the future.

17/07/25

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Former MSc Health Psychology Student Publishes Her MSc Thesis

Former MSc Health Psychology Student Molly Roberts, supervised by Dr. Daniel Gaffiero, has had her work titled "Exploring barriers and facilitators to effective self-management in individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis" accepted for publication in the journal Cogent Psychology (Taylor & Francis). The Gaffiero Health Behaviour Group wish to extend their congratulations to Molly.

03/06/25

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The Union Education Awards Success

On June 5th, 2025, the University of Derby came alive with celebration as the annual Union Education Awards took centre stage. A standout moment of the evening was the continued recognition of Dr. Daniel Gaffiero, whose unwavering commitment to student success was once again celebrated. After being honoured last year as Personal Academic Tutor of the Year, Dr. Gaffiero was proud to receive this year’s award for Postgraduate Research Supervisor of the Year.

21/05/25

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