Research Philosophy​

​

As a psychologist, researcher, and academic, my work is grounded in a commitment to rigorous inquiry, ethical responsibility, and the advancement of knowledge in service of the public good. I approach research as both a scientific endeavour and a moral obligation—one that seeks to generate evidence capable of informing practice, policy, and systems that promote human well-being, particularly in relation to addiction and mental health.

​

My research is situated at the intersection of psychology and public service, with a primary focus on first responders, corrections professionals, military members, and other personnel operating in high-risk, high-responsibility environments. These roles require sustained psychological readiness and involve repeated exposure to cumulative stress, trauma, and moral complexity, as well as decision-making under conditions of uncertainty and threat. Such demands place service personnel at elevated risk for addiction and mental health disorders. Accordingly, my work prioritizes the study of psychological safety, resilience, occupational stress, moral injury, and adaptive functioning as key mechanisms influencing addiction and mental health outcomes in these populations.

​

Guided by principles of ethical rigor and critical inquiry, my research aims to produce knowledge that is both scientifically robust and practically applicable. I emphasize translational and applied research that bridges theory and practice, supports evidence-based clinical and organizational interventions, and informs policy and training frameworks within public safety systems. Through this work, I seek to advance the prevention and treatment of addiction and mental health conditions.

​

This research philosophy is operationalized through Sentinel Minds Lab, which reflects a research agenda dedicated to safeguarding the psychological health of those entrusted with public protection and national service. At its core, my work recognizes that effective public safety and defence depend not only on physical readiness and operational competence, but on the sustained psychological well-being of the individuals who serve.

​

Ultimately, my research is driven by the belief that advancing psychological knowledge in these domains is essential to strengthening institutions, improving individual and organizational outcomes, and enhancing the lives of both service personnel and the communities they support.