I am a Reader in Forensic and Investigative Psychology and Associate Director of the Scottish Institute for Policing Research with specific responsibility for the Evidence and Investigation Network.

With a former police officer colleague I pioneered the development of behavioural profiling of missing persons and my research findings are used by all UK police forces, Search and Rescue Teams, HM Coastguard and allied international agencies.

As an HCPC Registered Forensic Psychologist I have provided expert advice/operational support to over 100 high profile missing person cases around the world. I train Senior Investigating Officers and have worked with the Scottish Government to develop the first National Framework in Scotland for Missing Persons.

Before joining Abertay, I spent 14 years as Senior Research Officer and Head of the Grampian Police Research Unit (now Police Scotland). Working directly with the police I have cultivated my own research interests predominantly within the remits of forensic and investigative psychology.

I am specifically interested in the investigation of crime, missing persons, the policing of vulnerable people, and stress and policing.

I am passionate about translating research into practice and my research has received numerous awards – including the ESRC Award for Outstanding Impact in Society – and extensive national and local media coverage over many years.