Ellen Lowry

Ellen Lowry is a Lecturer in Medical Education (Consultation Skills) at Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, and a member of the Lifespan Health research group. She holds a PhD in Psychology from UEA, an MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience, and a BSc in Psychology from Birkbeck University of London. She is a Chartered Psychologist and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, actively contributing to medical education and clinical communication research.

• BSc Psychology (First-Class Honours), Birkbeck University of London (2017)
• MSc Cognitive Neuroscience (Distinction), University of East Anglia (2018)
• PhD in Psychology, University of East Anglia (2022)
• Post Graduate Certificate in Medical Education, University of East Anglia (2023)

Her research focuses on clinical communication, dementia, cognitive decline, and behavioural change. She investigates how psychology can enhance doctor-patient interactions, particularly through shared decision-making and patient perspective-taking. Her teaching expertise includes consultation skills, motivational interviewing, and communication with patients in psychological distress. She also teaches on the neuropsychology of dementia and addiction.

Her recent publications span neuroscience, cognitive assessment, and medical education, with a focus on vascular cognitive impairment, spatial navigation, and dementia diagnostics. Trends show a strong integration of neuroimaging (MRI, EEG), virtual reality, and clinical tools to understand and support cognitive health. Her work bridges clinical practice and educational innovation, particularly in preclinical detection and communication training.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• British Psychological Society Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol)
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AdvanceHE)

Ellen supervises MEd and PhD students and is involved in curriculum development, tutor training, and admissions. She leads the Consultation Skills module for Year 3 and the Gateway to Medicine programme, and serves on multiple committees including MB BS, Athena Swan, and Lifespan Health. She has secured CPD delivery roles and external collaborations, including with NHS and charities like Alzheimer’s Society and Mind. Her current projects include evaluating shared decision-making tools and using VR to enhance empathy in dementia care.

She is actively involved in professional networks such as the UK Council for Clinical Communication in Undergraduate Education (UKCCC) and the Behavioural and Social Sciences Teaching in Medicine group (BeSST), and frequently delivers workshops and invited talks on medical education and communication skills.