Dr Daniel Gaffiero is a Chartered Psychologist, Lecturer in Health Psychology at the University of Derby, and Psychology Tutor for the University of Essex Online. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, reflecting his strong commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. Dr Gaffiero teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate levels, specialising in health promotion, behaviour change, cognitive psychology, and research methods. He also supervises undergraduate, MSc, and doctoral students, supporting their growth as independent researchers. His teaching philosophy centres on viewing students as equals, embracing a two-way learning process where he can learn as much from his students as they do from him. He places students at the heart of his practice, striving to create meaningful opportunities for growth, critical thinking, and the development of applied skills.
Group Member
Brian’s research interests are centred on health psychology, with a particular focus on the prevention and management of chronic diseases such as breast cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Group Member
Rachel Tulloch currently works as an Associate Lecturer on the online BSc Nursing top-up programme at the University of Derby. She also supports individuals recently diagnosed with dementia in her role as a Post-Diagnostic Support Link Worker with Alzheimer’s Scotland. She will begin a PhD later this year, focusing on women’s brain health and the menopause.
Group Member
Stephanie A. Davey is a current PhD student at the University of Derby. Her PhD is focused on exploring the barriers and facilitators of childhood influenza vaccine decision-making of parents in England.
Haritini Tsangari is a Professor at the University of Nicosia, Cyprus, where she also serves as Director of Doctoral Programs and Chair of the Senate’s Faculty Affairs Committee. She has published over 150 widely cited journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers. Several of her works have received awards or been selected as Editor’s Choice. She has led research projects funded by European and national bodies.Her past research includes developing the Greek version of Champion’s Health Belief Model and conducting cross-cultural studies on breast screening perceptions.
Dr Christodoulaki has completed a PhD in Cancer Immunology at the University of Southampton, and is involved in a number of projects across the Gaffiero Health Behaviour Research Group, including exploring the psychosocial factors influencing breast cancer screening uptake in Greece and parental HPV vaccine decision-making.
Dr Papathanasiou is a filmmaker and academic with a background in TV and film production, scriptwriting, and video editing. He has worked across production and post-production roles, directing award-winning and creating socially impactful documentaries. Holding a PhD, in Film from the University of Nottingham, he now offers guest lectures and consultancy to support independent filmmakers and explore cinema's role in reflecting and shaping society.
As Wellbeing and Disability Lead at the Elizabeth School of London, Crystal is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes student wellbeing. She oversees personalised 1:1 coaching programs, coordinate wellness events to enhance mental health awareness and resilience, and manage complex student cases to ensure timely and appropriate support. Crystal completed her MSc in Health Psychology in 2022, under the supervision of Dr. Gaffiero.
William is a Trainee Cognitive Behavioural Therapist specialising in Eating Disorders at the University of Sheffield, with a background in personal training and nutrition. He has both lived experience of bulimia nervosa and clinical experience supporting individuals with a range of eating disorders. He is passionate about integrating academic research with clinical practice to improve health outcomes.
Sophia works as a Clinical Research Co-ordinator at Alpha Clinical. She also is a research assistant for MediPaCe, a leading Patient Involvement and Research consultancy to the global Life Science Industry. She completed her MSc in Health Psychology in 2022, under the supervision of Dr. Gaffiero. Her research interests include chronic pain and women's health.
Sarah Chapman currently works as a Senior Administrator for an NHS Talking Therapies service, with previous experience in NHS Secondary and Community Care settings. She completed her MSc Psychology degree with the University of Derby in 2023 and is currently continuing her studies at Derby, undertaking an MSc in Health Psychology/Stage 1 training. Her research interests include the role of message framing and fear of COVID-19 on COVID-19 vaccination intention, and barriers and facilitators to engagement with breast screening uptake.
