Dr Helen Paterson is currently working as a Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology at the University of Sydney. She was awarded her PhD at The University of New South Wales in 2005.While completing her PhD, Helen gained valuable work experience in applied, forensic settings. For example, she worked for the New South Wales Crime Commission and she was hired by the New South Wales Police to investigate selection requirements of police officers. After completing her PhD, she worked as a post-doctoral fellow at The University of Sydney and a Lecturer in Psychology at the University of New South Wales.
Helen Paterson investigates ways in which psychological research and theory can inform the legal system. In particular, she is interested in studying eyewitness memory and lie detection. Her research predominantly focuses on how discussion amongst eyewitnesses can influence the accuracy of their individual memories and their psychological wellbeing.