LENA PATERAKI | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. LENA PATERAKI | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

RESEARCH FELLOW from American College of Greece, Greece

Dr. Lena Pateraki is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of psychology, with a career spanning over four decades. Her work is notable for its breadth, encompassing cognitive psychology, social cognition, moral judgment, neurocognition, and psycholinguistics. Having served as an Assistant Professor and later as the Head of the Psychology Department at Deree College in Athens, Greece, she is now a Research Fellow in the same institution. Throughout her career, Dr. Pateraki has demonstrated exceptional dedication to both research and education, consistently contributing to the scientific community through numerous publications, conference presentations, and collaborative projects. Her research is recognized internationally, and her work on bilingualism, cognitive processes in the deaf, moral disengagement, and emotional memory has made a meaningful impact. Her leadership experience within academia also highlights her ability to mentor students and promote research excellence. Dr. Pateraki’s ability to bridge theoretical frameworks with practical applications reflects her versatility and commitment to advancing psychology. She has maintained an active engagement with contemporary issues, continuously evolving her research interests to align with emerging psychological challenges. Her strong academic background, extensive research contributions, and leadership roles position her as an exemplary figure deserving of recognition and awards in the academic and research community.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Lena Pateraki has an impressive educational background that has laid a strong foundation for her research and academic career. She earned her Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology from the University of Hull in England in February 1983. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Cerebral lateralization in the Deaf. A Bilingual Pattern?” focused on brain organization in bilingual and deaf populations, showcasing her early interest in cognitive and neuropsychological processes. Prior to her doctoral studies, she completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Deree College in Athens, Greece, graduating in June 1979. Her academic training has been multidisciplinary, integrating cognitive science, linguistics, and psychological assessment, which is reflected in the diverse range of topics she has explored throughout her career. Dr. Pateraki’s rigorous educational journey allowed her to build a strong theoretical and methodological understanding of psychology, which has continuously informed her research and teaching. Her early focus on experimental psychology during her time as a tutor at the University of Hull equipped her with critical research and analytical skills. This educational trajectory not only established her expertise but also fostered a lifelong commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and mentorship of the next generation of psychology professionals.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lena Pateraki’s professional journey showcases her extensive and impactful career in psychology education and research. From 1988 to 2023, she served as an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Deree College, Athens, where she taught a wide array of courses including Introduction to Psychology, Perception, and Cognition. Her commitment to academic leadership was evident during her tenure as the Head of the Psychology Department from 2017 to 2023, where she was instrumental in curriculum development, departmental management, and fostering a research-oriented environment. In 2023, she transitioned to the role of Research Fellow at Deree College, dedicating herself more intensively to research activities. Earlier in her career, she taught Psychology of the Deaf at Marsalio School in Athens between 1984 and 1985. Her international experience includes her role as a Tutor in Experimental Psychology at the University of Hull from 1980 to 1983, further solidifying her research competencies. Dr. Pateraki’s professional experience reflects her dual commitment to both education and research. Her ability to sustain long-term academic engagements while contributing significantly to research underscores her passion for psychology and her value to the institutions she has been associated with.

Research Interests

Dr. Lena Pateraki’s research interests cover a wide and dynamic spectrum of psychological disciplines. She has a strong focus on moral judgment decisions, exploring how individuals make ethical choices and the cognitive processes underlying these decisions. Her interest in social cognition reflects her dedication to understanding how people perceive, interpret, and respond to social information. Additionally, Dr. Pateraki has conducted extensive work on memory and emotion, particularly how emotional factors influence memory formation and recall. Her areas of broader academic interest include neurocognition, examining the relationship between brain function and cognitive processes, as well as neuro-psychoanalysis, which integrates psychoanalytic theory with neuroscience. Psycholinguistics and the psychology of language are also central to her interests, highlighting her engagement with how language processing intersects with psychological functioning. In biopsychology, she investigates the biological underpinnings of behavior. Collectively, her research interests demonstrate her commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, blending cognitive psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, and social psychology to offer comprehensive insights into human behavior. This wide-ranging interest base has allowed her to address complex psychological questions with nuance and depth, making substantial contributions to both theoretical models and practical applications in psychology.

Research Skills

Dr. Lena Pateraki possesses a robust set of research skills that have contributed significantly to her long-standing academic success. Her methodological expertise spans experimental design, statistical analysis, and psychometric evaluation, particularly within cognitive and social psychology frameworks. She is adept in designing experiments that probe complex psychological phenomena, such as emotion recognition, memory recall under different cognitive loads, and moral judgment mechanisms. Her research frequently integrates qualitative and quantitative methods, allowing for comprehensive analysis and interpretation of psychological data. Dr. Pateraki has demonstrated skills in neuropsychological assessment and interpretation, which she applies in areas such as neurocognition and biopsychology. She also has considerable experience supervising dissertations, indicating her strength in mentoring students in research planning, data collection, and academic writing. Through her numerous publications, she has shown proficiency in scholarly writing, peer-reviewed publication standards, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Presentation skills are another asset, with frequent invitations to present papers at international conferences, often earning recognition and awards. Her ability to translate complex psychological concepts into accessible formats for diverse audiences further highlights her communication and dissemination skills. Dr. Pateraki’s research skill set positions her as a highly capable researcher who contributes both to scientific advancement and academic mentorship.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Dr. Lena Pateraki has received notable recognition for her contributions to research and academia. Among her honors, a significant achievement includes winning the Best Video Presentation Award in Eye-Witness research at the 10th European Congress of Psychology held in Prague. This award reflects the quality and relevance of her research in the field of cognitive and forensic psychology. Her leadership roles, particularly as the Head of the Psychology Department at Deree College, further testify to the trust and esteem she commands in the academic community. Additionally, her participation in numerous prestigious international conferences as a paper presenter or poster contributor showcases the acknowledgment of her research work by the global academic community. Dr. Pateraki’s selection as a Research Fellow in 2023 also highlights institutional recognition of her continued dedication to advancing research in psychology. Her collaborative publications with internationally recognized researchers and participation in multi-country studies further cement her reputation as an influential figure in her field. Though more formal honors, such as national or international research medals, could enhance her accolades list, her consistent track record of high-quality contributions, academic leadership, and international engagement positions her as an accomplished and highly respected researcher.

Conclusion

Dr. Lena Pateraki’s academic journey and research contributions establish her as a distinguished and highly qualified candidate for prestigious research awards. Her sustained commitment to advancing psychological knowledge through teaching, research, and leadership is evident in her diverse portfolio of publications, conference presentations, and academic roles. She has demonstrated a lifelong dedication to interdisciplinary research, focusing on critical topics such as moral judgment, memory and emotion, and neurocognitive processes. Her ability to balance teaching excellence with active research involvement further underscores her versatility and commitment to academia. While there is an opportunity for her to enhance her profile with more high-impact recent publications and large-scale research grants, her overall record of achievements is exceptional. Dr. Pateraki’s career reflects not only scholarly excellence but also an enduring passion for the advancement of psychological science and education. Her broad expertise, strong mentorship record, and international research collaborations make her an outstanding role model for emerging researchers. In conclusion, Dr. Lena Pateraki is highly deserving of recognition through a Best Researcher Award for her remarkable contributions to psychological research, academic leadership, and dedication to fostering scientific inquiry and knowledge dissemination.

Publications Top Notes

  1. The role of disgust in homosexuality judgments
    Authors: Chrysanthi Nega, Lena Pateraki, N. Saranti, A. Pasia
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 2

 

 

Sheila Levi | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sheila Levi | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Birkbeck University of London, United Kingdom

Sheila Levi is a BPS-accredited Chartered Clinical Psychologist, ACP-accredited Senior Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, and IPA-accredited Adult Psychoanalyst with nearly 30 years of experience. She specializes in psychoanalytically oriented clinical work with children, adolescents, and adults. With a strong theoretical foundation and a commitment to staying updated with developments in psychoanalysis, she has worked extensively in diverse cultural settings. Sheila has contributed significantly to the field through clinical practice, academic research, and leadership roles in professional organizations. She has played a vital role in shaping post-pandemic mental health provisions and service-building within the NHS. Additionally, she has participated in various study groups on race, gender, and sexuality in psychoanalysis. Her expertise extends to mother-child education programs and migrant family support services. Sheila’s professional journey reflects a balance between research, clinical work, and training future psychologists. She has also served as an editor and contributed to academic discourse in psychoanalysis. Her ability to integrate research into practice has strengthened psychoanalytic therapy and contributed to evidence-based mental health services. Sheila Levi’s dedication to psychoanalytic research and her commitment to improving mental health care make her a distinguished professional in her field.

Professional Profile

Education

Sheila Levi has a robust academic background in psychology and psychoanalysis. She completed Advanced Adult Psychoanalytic Training at the British Psychoanalytic Association (BPA) in 2017. In 2010, she received a Statement of Equivalence in Clinical Psychology from the British Psychological Society (BPS) and was entered into the Register of Chartered Psychologists. She also completed Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy Training at the British Association of Psychotherapists (BAP) in 2008. Sheila conducted PhD research at Exeter University, where she examined the empirical validity of Freudian castration anxiety, culminating in her MPhil dissertation on the psychological effects of circumcision on Turkish-Muslim boys in 2003. Prior to that, she earned an MSc in Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology from University College London in 2001. Her foundational education in psychology began with an MA in Clinical Psychology from Boğaziçi University in 1991, where she studied kinetic family drawings for her thesis. She obtained her BA in Psychology from the same university in 1988. Sheila’s education reflects her deep commitment to psychoanalytic research, clinical psychology, and psychotherapy. Her extensive training and academic achievements have provided a strong theoretical and practical foundation for her distinguished career in psychoanalysis and mental health.

Professional Experience

Sheila Levi has had a distinguished career in psychoanalytic practice and clinical psychology. Since 2023, she has been practicing full-time at PSY London Ltd. She previously worked in private psychoanalytic practice from 2017 to 2023 and at Harvist Road Practice, where she provided psychoanalysis, psychotherapy, and psychodiagnostic assessments. She has held significant roles, including editor of the BPA Bulletin and membership in various study groups on racism, sexuality, and gender in psychoanalysis. Earlier in her career, she worked extensively in the NHS, notably at Barnet, Enfield, and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust, where she provided specialized psychological services to children, adolescents, and families. She played a key role in developing psycho-social support programs for migrant children and families. Sheila has also worked as a clinical psychologist in hospitals, including Chase Farm Hospital, where she focused on PTSD and impulse management problems. Additionally, she has contributed to community-based mental health initiatives, including implementing mother-child education programs. Throughout her career, she has chaired multidisciplinary teams, supervised MSc students, and worked on service-building strategies. Her broad professional experience demonstrates her commitment to both clinical excellence and research-driven mental health interventions.

Research Interests

Sheila Levi’s research interests span multiple areas of psychoanalysis, clinical psychology, and mental health interventions. Her primary research focus has been on psychoanalytic theory, particularly Freudian concepts, as seen in her PhD research on castration anxiety and circumcision. She is also deeply interested in child development, mother-child relationships, and early intervention strategies, as evidenced by her involvement in mother-child education programs. Sheila has contributed to research on trauma, PTSD, and the impact of psychoanalytic therapy on refugees and asylum seekers. She has also explored the psychological effects of cultural displacement, particularly in migrant families, and has developed programs addressing their mental health needs. Another key area of her research includes gender and sexuality in psychoanalysis, having participated in study groups on these topics. Additionally, she has worked on post-pandemic mental health strategies, emphasizing psychoanalytic approaches to community and NHS service development. Her research integrates empirical studies with clinical applications, aiming to bridge theoretical psychoanalysis with real-world mental health solutions. Sheila’s diverse research interests reflect her commitment to advancing psychoanalytic knowledge and improving psychological interventions for individuals across different cultural and social backgrounds.

Research Skills

Sheila Levi possesses a wide range of research skills that have contributed to her academic and professional success. She has expertise in psychoanalytic research methodologies, including qualitative and case study approaches. Her ability to conduct in-depth psychoanalytic assessments is evident from her research on Freudian theory and child development. She has also designed and managed randomized controlled trials (RCTs), as demonstrated by her study on the effectiveness of the mother-child education program (MOCEP) in primary schools. Sheila is skilled in psychodiagnostic assessments, data interpretation, and report writing, which are crucial for both research and clinical practice. She has experience in interdisciplinary research, collaborating with professionals in psychology, psychiatry, and social work. Additionally, her role as an editor for the BPA Bulletin highlights her ability to critically review and refine research publications. Sheila has also supervised MSc students, helping them develop research skills and clinical competencies. Her extensive experience in applied research, combined with her knowledge of psychoanalytic theories, enables her to contribute valuable insights to the field. Her research skills make her a strong candidate for awards recognizing excellence in psychoanalytic and clinical research.

Awards and Honors

Sheila Levi has received multiple recognitions for her contributions to psychoanalysis and clinical psychology. In 2010, she was granted a Statement of Equivalence in Clinical Psychology by the British Psychological Society (BPS), allowing her to be registered as a Chartered Psychologist. Her PhD research at Exeter University was recognized for its contribution to psychoanalytic theory, leading to the award of an MPhil degree. She has been invited to join esteemed scientific committees, including the ACP Scientific Development Committee and the ACP Complexity Group, for her expertise in mental health service development. Additionally, her editorial role at the BPA Bulletin is a testament to her contributions to academic discourse in psychoanalysis. Sheila has been a key figure in NHS mental health initiatives, leading migrant family support programs, which have received institutional recognition. Her work with mother-child education programs has also been acknowledged by research organizations. Furthermore, her extensive contributions to psychoanalytic study groups on racism, gender, and sexuality have positioned her as a thought leader in the field. Sheila’s awards and honors reflect her dedication to advancing psychoanalytic research and clinical practice on an international level.

Conclusion

Sheila Levi is a highly accomplished clinical psychologist, psychoanalyst, and researcher whose work has made a significant impact in psychoanalysis and mental health. With nearly three decades of experience, she has successfully integrated research, clinical practice, and education to advance psychoanalytic knowledge. Her research on Freudian theory, trauma, child development, and migrant mental health interventions highlights her commitment to addressing complex psychological issues. Sheila’s ability to bridge theoretical psychoanalysis with practical mental health solutions sets her apart as a leader in her field. While her contributions to research are extensive, further publications in high-impact journals would enhance her profile as a top researcher. Nevertheless, her work in psychoanalytic study groups, NHS service development, and mother-child education programs demonstrates her dedication to improving mental health services. Sheila’s expertise, research skills, and leadership roles make her a strong candidate for research awards. Her career exemplifies a lifelong commitment to psychoanalytic research and clinical excellence, making her a valuable asset to the field of mental health.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: The cut: Psychoanalysis with a third‐generation holocaust survivor
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: ‘I caught you!’ Part 1: maturing separateness within the area of mutuality
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2022

  3. Title: ‘I caught you!’ Part 2: enriching the external reality
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2022

  4. Title: Dark times: psychoanalytic perspectives on politics, history, and mourning
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2021

  5. Title: “I feel like a wrong production; I should not have been born”
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2019

  6. Title: Working Psychoanalytically with Female to Male Transsexual Adult
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2019

  7. Title: Measuring Change in Psychotherapeutic Work with a Traumatised Child on the Autistic Spectrum
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2017

  8. Title: The Psychosocial Enrichment Project for Turkish Speaking Disadvantaged Parents and Their Children Living in Enfield
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2015

  9. Title: The Use of Diagnostic Profile with an Emotionally Neglected and Trauma Induced Shut Down Case
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2013

  10. Title: Projective Methods and Psychoanalytic View of Personality
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2011

  11. Title: Silent Scream
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2011

  12. Title: The Psychological Effects of Circumcision on Muslim Boys
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2010

  13. Title: The Role of Psychological Testing in Demonstrating the Value of Psychotherapy with Traumatised Children on the Autistic Spectrum
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2009

  14. Title: Intensive Psychotherapy with an Adolescent Who Had a Disorganised Attachment Pattern
    Author: Sheila Levi
    Year: 2008