Department of Psychology

Social, Hospitality and Outreach (SHOUT) scheme

Our Social, Hospitality and Outreach (SHOUT) programme brings about the opportunity to work directly with the Department of Psychology to engage the public with our research and generate societal change.

Speak up. Shout it out. Make people aware.

Your involvement in the scheme will include organising events, contributing to outreach projects, and creating engaging content for our social media platforms.

By participating in this scheme, you will not only accomplish your own goals, but also forge deeper connections with the department and gain valuable learning experiences beyond the classroom.

  • Learn to articulate the practical impact of psychology research on everyday life.
  • Develop essential science communication skills.
  • Translate psychological concepts and research for diverse audiences, from schools to public events.


Demystifying Psychology

Our mission

Our department’s research mission is to cultivate a deeper understanding of our place in the world, thereby enhancing public awareness on the field of psychology. We play a key role in strengthening the link between academia and the wider environment, fostering a more scientifically informed society.

Psychology at Essex

Covering a huge range of essential research topics that impact everyone, Psychology at Essex is a crucial study for understanding human behaviour and improving well-being. We are at the forefront of addressing pressing societal challenges through ground breaking research, directly tackling issues relevant to everyday life. The main topics explored are:

  • Learning and education
  • Relationships
  • Communication
  • Mental health
  • Social justice and decision-making
  • Development
  • Memory

Engaging with local communities through effective communication fosters strong connections between academia and the public by endorsing the benefits generated from psychological research. 

Explore our research topics

Help us help you

By getting involved, you will expand your network and gain valuable hands-on experience, helping you stand out as a well-rounded and highly sought-after candidate in your chosen career. Help us demystify complex psychological concepts and combat misconceptions by ensuring valuable findings reach a broad audience, including policymakers, educators, healthcare professionals, and the general public. By sharing evidence-based insights, we increase the real-world impact of our work, influencing practices in education, therapy, public policy, and more.

Our Babylab and child development research shape parenting strategies and enhance educational methods. Make a difference and generate change—be part of our mission to bring psychology to life in meaningful ways.

Explore our research in the Centre for Brain Science

Did
you know?

20th in UK for research outputs in psychology (Grade Point Average, REF 2021)
Exceptional research labs and facilities including our Centre for Brain Science
95% of our Psychology undergraduate graduates are in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2024)
A computer screen showing a persons eye, with tracking information around it.
A woman with blonde hair wearing a blue EEG cap, with someone to the right attaching a small sensor to her cheek.
An over-the-shoulder shot of a computer screen showing two figures, with someone to the left reaching across to point at one of the figures.

About the scheme

What is the criteria?

We are looking for passionate students from the department to join our team. No prior experience in events or social media is required—just a strong enthusiasm for outreach in psychology. If you are eager to make an impact and engage with the community, we want to hear from you.

How long does this scheme last?

This 8-week programme fits seamlessly into your term, requiring just a minimal time commitment of no more than 5 hours per week. This scheme is designed to work around your lectures and schedule, making it easy to balance with your other commitments.

What does the programme entail?

As part of a small, dynamic team, you will work on exciting projects that promote and showcase the work of our department. Projects vary each term but may include managing social media accounts, contributing to the departmental newsletter, or supporting the promotion and management of events.

Throughout the academic term, you could play a key role in organizing and advertising public talks, generating creative ideas and content for our social media platforms, or participating in outreach activities that engage schoolchildren with the fascinating world of psychology and its real-world impact.

How do I benefit from this scheme?

You will gain valuable experience in teamwork, project management, and communication (including digital media), while also deepening your understanding of outreach, research promotion, and strategies for engaging diverse audiences.

Student giving feedback in group chat
Want to know more?

Participating in this program will help you develop essential skills in organisation, attention to detail, and tailoring communication for different groups, all of which will strengthen your CV and provide meaningful experience to discuss in future applications and job interviews.

Not yet part of our community?

Explore the courses we offer and become a valued member of the Essex community. Dive into cutting-edge research, unlock new opportunities for your growth and set your career in motion.

person working with laptop and cat
If you have any questions...
Contact our SHOUT scheme administrators Department of Psychology
We accept applications from students at the Department of Psychology. If you are interested in applying, please send your CV and a motivation letter to accompany your application.
Department of Psychology University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Essex CO4 3SQ