Rusi Jaspal

Rusi Jaspal is Professor of Psychology and Sexual Health and Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) at De Montfort University (DMU), UK, where he is affiliated with the School of Applied Social Sciences within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. He also serves as Deputy Director of the Mary Seacole Research Centre and holds a Visiting Professorship in Minority Research at Abo Akademi University, Finland.

• M.A., University of Cambridge
• M.Sc., University of Surrey
• Ph.D., Royal Holloway, University of London

His research focuses on the social psychology of identity, particularly among marginalized groups, with a strong emphasis on sexual health, LGBTQ+ communities, and the psychological aspects of HIV/AIDS. He investigates how individuals manage intersecting identities related to ethnicity, religion, and sexuality, especially among British South Asian and Muslim gay men. His work integrates social identity theory, minority stress, and social representations to understand health disparities and develop effective interventions.

His recent publications highlight trends in digital identity (e.g., Grindr), stigma around PrEP and chemsex, cross-cultural identity construction, and media representations of public health issues. These works span psychology, public health, media studies, and cultural theory, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach.

• DMU Vice-Chancellor's Future Research Leader (2014)
• British Climate Change Study Group Award (2014)
• Outstanding Research by an Early Career Scholar Prize, BPS (2012)
• Changing Faces Essay Prize – Highly Commended (2011)
• Poster Competition Prize, University of Nottingham (2011)

Prof Jaspal has secured multiple research grants from organizations including Public Health England, NAZ: Sexual Health for Everyone, and the Annenberg Public Policy Center. He supervises PhD students working on non-binary gender identities, intercultural communication, and mental health in South Asian LGB populations. He is actively involved in knowledge dissemination through editorial roles (e.g., book reviews editor for Israel Affairs) and peer review for numerous journals and publishers. He also contributes to public health policy through his role on the Medical Board of NAZ and membership in professional associations such as the British HIV Association and the International AIDS Society.

He leads and collaborates on interdisciplinary research projects centered on mental health, cultural diversity, and health equity, often co-produced with statutory and voluntary sector partners. His work aligns with global efforts to promote the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in health and wellbeing.