Professor Sarah White

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

School of Psychology and Vision Sciences, University of Leicester

Scientific Background

Research Interests

As we read we can only view a small number of letters in high visual detail at any one time. We move our eyes to provide a series of visually detailed snapshots of the text that are then integrated together. I am particularly interested in how we process text outside of central vision (parafoveal processing) and the mechanisms underlying what controls the movements of our eyes as we read. The research helps us understand how the visual attention, oculomotor and language systems work together. I am also interested in the flexibility (e.g. effect of reading goals) and development (e.g. older readers) of these mechanisms and how they are affected by clinical conditions (e.g. nystagmus).

Research Groups

ESRC Reading Goals Project

Vision Sciences

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, student-centred, inclusive.

Provision of Training

Methods and stats training provided within the research group and from seminars and workshops held within the field.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I will set out my expectations of your progression on a weekly/monthly basis. If these progression criteria are not met we will always discuss a plan of action together.

Communication

I encourage my students to maintain a good work/life balance, I don’t expect them to email me out of hours (though they are welcome to do so).

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once per fortnight

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per month

The meetings will be a mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone and I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.

Working Pattern

Work in my lab requires being present on site (be it in a laboratory or at a field site), usually during core hours, depending on when participants are scheduled.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 2 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

Project Details

Professor Sarah White is supervising no projects this year.