Effie Assan

Effie Assan is a Researcher affiliated with the University of Glasgow, working in Professor Ewan Macdonald's team within the Healthy Working Lives Group. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Psychology at the University of St. Andrews (4th year, full-time). Her primary research focuses on enhancing mental health, cognitive function, and social well-being, particularly in older adults. She has contributed to projects addressing pandemic responses, loneliness, and public health initiatives.

Education:

• PhD in Psychology (In Progress), University of St. Andrews
• MSc in Psychology (Conversion), University of St. Andrews (2018)
• BSc in Management, University of Manchester (2014)

Research Interests:

Effie investigates mental health, cognitive outcomes in aging populations, and the psychological impacts of social isolation. Her work integrates pandemic-related challenges and actionable strategies to improve wellbeing. She emphasizes translating research into practical solutions for public health.

Professional Experience:

• Project Support (Long COVID), NHS National Services Scotland (2023–2024)
• Tutor (Cognitive Psychology and Emotional Disorders), University of St. Andrews (2022–Current)
• Project Support Manager (COVID Vaccination), NHS East of England (2021–2022)
• Project Supervisor (Wellbeing, Loneliness, and Social Isolation), Age Concern (2019–2021)

Lab/Teams: Member of the Healthy Ageing Research Group.