Sarah is a doctoral candidate. Her research concerns the influence of species on perceptions of animals. For instance, why do many people care for dogs as family, yet eat pigs, despite pigs being ostensibly similar to dogs in behaviour, appearance, sociality, emotionality, and intelligence? This concept can be termed 'speciesism' and is of great research importance, as pigs (and other animals) may be morally disengaged from. Current research has so far only investigated the existence of speciesism and limited causes, with little consideration of a) the implications of speciesism for perceptions of animals and behavioural intentions, b) alternative causes to speciesism besides self-relevance, and c) interventions to reduce and prevent speciesism. Sarah's research aims to address these gaps. Sarah has experience in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including mixed methods, with most of her research utilising quantitative methods.

Rebecca holds a PhD in Social Psychology.  Her doctoral studies were funded by an ESRC Case Studentship, in which she was partnered with Greenpeace International. Her thesis was an investigation into the micro-, meso- and distal-level social barriers that exist to inhibit individuals from pursuing and maintaining plant-forward diets. This mixed methods body of research has now been published in varying academic and non-academic outlets – including peer-reviewed manuscripts published in Appetite and The Journal of Social Psychology, as well as media pieces for The Vegan Society, Psychology Today and Faunalytics. 

In her current position, an ESRC funded Postdoctoral Fellowship at Lancaster University, Rebecca is investigating identity residue in former vegans - the hypothesis that after abandoning their vegan diet, former vegans may continue to harbour residual behaviours and attitudes that align with the ethical principles of veganism. Importantly, identity residue may predict willingness to readopt vegan diets. 

Broadly, Rebecca is passionate about research regarding the pursuit and maintenance of plant-forward diets, behaviour change, social identity, and group processes. She has over 8+ years of such research experience in academic, advocacy and commercial settings and is skilled in research design, advanced data analytics, project management, and communication.