Dr. Helen Paterson

Associate Professor

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Biography

Helen Paterson is an Associate Professor in Forensic Psychology at the University of Sydney. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia and her PhD from the University of New South Wales. Her primary research interests focus on the effects of traumatic events on memory and psychological well-being. Helen collaborates with industry partners, including the NSW Police Force and Fire Rescue, to enhance decision-making techniques under stress and to investigate PTSD and resilience. She applies social cognitive psychology principles within legal settings, particularly in collecting accurate eyewitness accounts while preserving psychological well-being. Her research also includes lie detection and deception studies, aligning with the Faculty of Science Research Strengths such as Brain Behaviour Cognition and Health Wellbeing Lifespan. Helen teaches multiple courses, including PSYC1001: Psychology 1001 and LAWS6970: Forensic Psychology. She has received several accolades for her contributions to forensic science and diversity inclusion, and her influential research has been cited in significant legal cases.

Research Interests

Courses

PSYC1001: Psychology 1001 PSYC3020: Applications of Psychological Science LAWS6970: Forensic Psychology

Requirements for University of Sydney

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:19
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:85
PTE
Listening
Required:54
Reading
Required:54
Writing
Required:54
Speaking
Required:54
Overall
Required:61
Prerequisites
A master's degree with a research component or a bachelor's degree with first or second-class honours. Demonstrated research experience and capability.
Application Checklist
  • Academic transcripts
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Research proposal (1000+ words)
  • Two academic referee reports
  • Evidence of residency status
  • Written statement of support from potential supervisor
Specialization Notes

This entry applies to Faculty of Science PhD programs including Departments such as Life and Environmental Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics and Statistics.