Ben Bullock

Ben Bullock is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychological Sciences at the School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology. He is also affiliated with the Centre for Mental Health and Brain Sciences, where his research focuses on the interplay between circadian rhythms, sleep, and mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder. His work bridges clinical psychology and chronobiology, aiming to identify early biomarkers and psychosocial mechanisms underlying mood vulnerability.

• PhD, Swinburne University of Technology, Australia

Ben’s research centers on two core themes: (1) psychosocial and chronobiological correlates of bipolar disorder and trait vulnerability, and (2) applications of chronobiological and psychosocial interventions in vulnerable populations. His studies have shown that individuals with subclinical bipolar traits exhibit circadian and social functioning profiles similar to diagnosed patients, suggesting shared risk mechanisms. He also investigates how disruptions in social rhythms—especially during events like the COVID-19 pandemic—affect mood and well-being. His work extends to shift workers, young adults, and children, emphasizing transdiagnostic and salutogenic approaches to mental health.

The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong focus on circadian rhythms, sleep interventions, and mood disorders. Key trends include the development and validation of assessment tools (e.g., SCRAM questionnaire), exploration of chronotherapies, and systematic reviews on sleep and mental health. His research frequently employs mixed methods, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative insights, and spans populations from emerging adults to racehorse trainers. There is a clear emphasis on translational research, aiming to inform clinical practice and public health policy.

• Associate Editor, PLOS ONE (2018–2021)
• Member, Association for Psychological Science (since 2012)

Ben is actively involved in research supervision, currently guiding multiple PhD students across topics such as chronic fatigue, future-oriented cognition in depression, and circadian rhythms in children. He has secured significant external funding from the Barbara Dicker Brain Science Foundation and Australian Rotary Health, supporting projects on biomarkers in bipolar disorder, sleep hygiene apps for rural workers, and sleep impacts on youth mental health. These grants highlight his leadership in interdisciplinary mental health research.

He is involved in several research initiatives, including the Centre for Mental Health and Brain Sciences and collaborative projects on digital health tools for sleep management. His work on the SCRAM questionnaire and mobile sleep apps demonstrates engagement with innovative, scalable interventions.