Professor Sarah-Jayne Blakemore's research focuses on the development of the brain, behaviour and social awareness in human adolescence. Sarah-Jayne's research has revealed neural and cognitive mechanisms underlying the transformations in self-identity, social behaviour and learning that typically characterise adolescence. Her research has shed light on the role that development of the social brain and mind might play in the vulnerability to mental health problems commonly seen in adolescence and in opportunities for learning and resilience during this unique period of life.
Sarah-Jayne studied Experimental Psychology at Oxford University, followed by a PhD at UCL under the supervision of Professors Chris Frith FRS and Daniel Wolpert FRS, investigating self-awareness in psychosis. Supported by a series of Royal Society Research Fellowships, she then turned her research to human brain development.
Sarah-Jayne has been awarded several national and international prizes, including the Royal Society Rosalind Franklin Award, the Klaus J. Jacobs Prize and the British Psychological Society Presidents' Award. She is an Honorary Fellow of St John's College, Oxford, and a Fellow of the American Association of Psychological Science, the British Academy and the Academy of Medical Sciences.
Professional position
- Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge
Subject groups
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Multicellular Organisms
Behavioural neuroscience, Development and control of behaviour, Experimental psychology
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Other
Public engagement, Science education at secondary level, Science policy
Awards
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Royal Society Rosalind Franklin Award and Lecture
For her scientific achievements and her proposal to promote women in STEM.
