Today, we celebrate Dr Ewan Bottomley who is starting his new position as Research Fellow in the School of Psychology! Ewan joined the School in 2022 as a Teaching Fellow, and we wish him all the best in his new position within the School! Get to know Ewan a little more below:
What drew you to your current profession?
I had initially chosen psychology as the local college had offered a higher in it and we got to leave school early to go up to the college. We would always stop off for a burger on the way and this was quite exciting at the time. However, I have always found the human brain interesting. Following this, my dad became unwell with a brain tumor, and I think this also made me read more into the brain generally. At the end of my undergraduate, I was certain I wanted to be an academic.
Are there any projects you’re currently working on that you’re excited about?
Many! I have projects on a wide array of topics from the social categorisation of faces, to identity in education, to the consequences of the sexual objectification of women in society. One that is of particular interest to me just now is a project I am working on focusing on imposter phenomenon, the feeling that you are not capable or don’t deserve the position you are in, even although you are capable. I think this stands out to me as it is a particularly relatable feeling.
What's your go-to strategy for staying productive during the workday?
Lists definitely help me. I never used to use them, but with the coordinator role there were too many things to do to remember them all without a cue.
What do you do for fun outside of work?
I like to cook and always try to cook new things. I have taken part in a few cooking classes to try and improve. I usually find it quite relaxing.
What's a new skill you'd love to learn or activity you want to try?
I have been saying I am going to try and learn to play the guitar for a while now. I am looking for a teacher. My brother went through a period of trying to help me, but he is very good at it and I couldn’t keep up.
Quick Fire Questions!
Early bird or night owl?
There was a time where I was both - I wouldn’t recommend this. I am now more of an early bird.
City or country?
I think city, but I have never really lived in the country. I do like city breaks as holidays though.
Sweet or salty?
Salty. Not much of a sweet tooth.
Hot coffee or iced coffee?
Definitely hot coffee. I probably drink too much of it.
Dr Ewan Bottomley
School of Psychology
