Emma Gowen

Dr. Emma Gowen is a Senior Lecturer in the Division of Psychology, Communication and Human Neuroscience at The University of Manchester. She co-directs the Body Eyes and Movement (BEAM) lab, focusing on sensory motor control, imitation, and autism research. Her work emphasizes participatory approaches involving autistic adults and families through initiatives like Autism@Manchester. She holds administrative roles including Postgraduate Tutor and membership in ethics committees. Her research integrates eye tracking, motion tracking, and qualitative methods, addressing topics like sensory processing in autism and motor skill development.

Education: PhD from University Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (2003), MSc Investigative Ophthalmology (University of Manchester), BSc Orthoptics (University of Liverpool).

Research spans autism neurodiversity, motor control, and sensory integration. Key projects include studying aging in autistic adults, developing autism-friendly eyecare practices, and exploring imitation mechanisms across clinical populations. Funded by ESRC, MRC, and Wellcome Trust.

• Grants: ESRC/RAI Centre for Robotics, MRC/Time perception studies
• Advising: Supervises optometry and psychology students on sensory-motor topics

Labs/Teams: BEAM Lab, Autism@Manchester Network, RAI Robotics Centre. Collaborations include Birmingham University and Manchester Royal Eye Hospital.