Research Interests

Dr Reniers is a research psychologist investigating the interplay between neurobiological, clinical and behavioural aspects of adolescent development and youth mental health. Her research involves the transition from health to disease, with a particular interest in emerging mental health problems (psychosis), neuroimaging (MRI and fMRI), social cognition (empathy, psychosocial functioning), adolescent and young adult risk-taking behaviour, and the impact of stress on brain and behaviour.

Research Themes

Dr Reniers’ research involves the transition from health to disease, with the main research themes being:

• Emerging mental health problems (psychosis).
• Social cognition (empathy, psychosocial functioning).
• Adolescent and young adult risk-taking behaviour.
• The impact of stress on brain and behaviour.

Scientific Inspiration

Professor FG Moeller. As part of my MSc I undertook a research apprenticeship at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHSC-H) under supervision of Professor Moeller. Convinced that my career would lie outside academia (policy making at government level really appealed at the time), I started my six months placement. It took less than three weeks for me to fall in love with research and the world of academia, and turn my career plans in this direction. Professor Moeller’s approach to science, being part of his incredibly dedicated, knowledgeable and accommodating research team, the opportunities to learn from the most talented and valued researchers in the field, and the freedom and space to develop, challenge and exceed my own knowledge and skills have shaped my approach, fascination and love for exploring the mysteries of the human brain and I will forever be grateful for that.