James Elander

Professor James Elander is a Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Derby’s School of Psychology, part of the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care. He is also affiliated with the Health and Social Care Research Centre and holds a National Teaching Fellow title. His research focuses on psychological and behavioral aspects of chronic illness management, particularly pain coping, medication use, and interventions for conditions like hemophilia, sickle cell disease, and chronic kidney disease. He also studies student learning, academic writing, and plagiarism prevention. His work bridges clinical psychology with educational psychology, emphasizing evidence-based interventions and patient-centered care.

Education: BSc Psychology and PhD in Psychology. He teaches modules in forensic psychology, educational psychology, and pain psychology at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including the Health Psychology MSc (online) and Behavior Change programs. His professional memberships include the British Psychological Society (Chartered Psychologist), Health Care Professions Council (Registered Health Psychologist), and Higher Education Academy (Registered Practitioner).

Key research areas include pain management interventions, haemodialysis patient experiences during the pandemic, and student authorial identity development. He has led projects such as the ‘Living Well on Haemodialysis’ program and systematic reviews on pain management components and dysmenorrhea treatments. His recent work addresses workplace accommodations for post-COVID-19 recovery and financial incentives for smoking cessation during pregnancy.

Notable achievements include the National Teaching Fellow award and contributions to academic writing mentoring. His research emphasizes practical applications, with interventions targeting analgesic misuse, chronic pain self-management, and improving access to healthcare services for marginalized groups like those with intellectual disabilities.