Helen Paterson

Helen Paterson is an Associate Professor in Forensic Psychology at the University of Sydney. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia and a PhD from the University of New South Wales. Her research focuses on traumatic events' impact on memory and psychological well-being, with notable collaborations involving the NSW Police Force and NSW Fire and Rescue. Her work addresses challenges in forensic memory retrieval and first responder resilience.

Dr. Paterson has pioneered projects such as the iWitnessed app, designed to improve witness evidence accuracy through contemporaneous records. Her research explores topics like gaslighting dynamics, juror perceptions of intoxication, and the cognitive effects of inattentional blindness. She has secured grants including the 2023 Australian Research Council Discovery Project on repeated event memory and a 2018 Seed Grant on sleep's role in memory accuracy.

Her advisory work includes consultation for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's drama series Hiding, blending academic expertise with media representation. Media features include ABC Radio, Sydney Morning Herald, and segments on Today Tonight and Sunrise.

Dr. Paterson’s contributions span over 100 peer-reviewed articles, emphasizing legal psychology, cognitive science, and forensic technology. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges academia, law enforcement, and public policy to enhance justice systems and emergency service mental health support.