Kayleigh Wyles

Dr. Kayleigh Wyles is an Associate Professor in Psychology at the School of Psychology, University of Plymouth. Her research focuses on environmental psychology, particularly the interplay between human behavior and natural environments. She specializes in how engagement with aquatic and coastal ecosystems impacts health, wellbeing, and environmental stewardship. Her work addresses challenges like marine plastic pollution, sustainable waste management, and the therapeutic potential of virtual nature experiences.

Dr. Wyles supervises multiple PhD students in areas such as virtual reality interventions for mental health, coastal wellbeing, and marine litter behavior. She is affiliated with the Faculty of Health and collaborates with institutions like the Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Management of UK Marine Resources.

Her teaching includes courses on environmental psychology, the human-nature relationship, and dissertation supervision. Research interests span behavioral interventions for sustainability, citizen science applications, and the psychological benefits of nature exposure. Notable projects include exploring the efficacy of VR nature for chronic pain management and investigating social capital’s role in waste management practices in Indonesia.

Dr. Wyles has advised over a dozen students and contributed to funded projects like the NERC-supported PhD on coastal engagement. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing environmental conservation and health equity.