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Sandra Sunram-Lea

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Professor in Biological Psychology, Lancaster University

My research background is in biological psychology/neuroscience and I am interested in biological factors and mechanisms which affect human cognition and behaviour across the lifespan.

Much of my research has focused on the effects of glucose administration and glucose regulatory mechanisms on human cognition. Through grant-funded collaborations with other centres I have also investigated the cognitive effects of glucose regulatory mechanisms with clinical populations such as diabetics. In addition, I have conducted investigations into the neurocognitive effects of energy drinks, nutritional supplements and food components.

I am also interested in evaluation of the behavioural and physiological effects of emotions and stress, and more specifically, how this affects cognitive performance.

My work has been funded by national and international competitive grants (BBSRC, ESRC, JDRF) and industry.

Experience

  • 2019–present
    Professor, Department of Psychology, Lancaster University

Education

  • 2001 
    University of Manchester, PhD

Publications

  • 2019
    Sugar Rush or Sugar Crash? A Meta-Analysis of Carbohydrate Effects on Mood, Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews
  • 2018
    Breakfast, glycaemic index and cognitive function in school children: evidence, methods and mechanisms, Nestlé Nutrition Institute Workshop Series
  • 2017
    The impact of diet-based glycaemic response and glucose regulation on cognition: evidence across the lifespan, Proceedings of the Nutrition Society

Grants and Contracts

  • 2017
    Feasibility Study: Assessment of glycaemic response to breakfast interventions using a non-invasive Continuous Glucose Monitoring device
    Role:
    PI
    Funding Source:
    Industry
  • 2014
    An investigation into the acute glycaemic and cognitive effects of breakfast cereals with different fibre conditions in young healthy adults
    Role:
    PI
    Funding Source:
    Industry
  • 2013
    Self-control and inhibition: moderating and mediating factors
    Role:
    Co-PI
    Funding Source:
    Economic and Social Research Council
  • 2011
    Effects of glucose and caffeine on cognition
    Role:
    PI
    Funding Source:
    Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
  • 2011
    Understanding emotional memory: the influence of cognitive factors
    Role:
    Co-PI
    Funding Source:
    Economic and Social Research Council

Professional Memberships

  • Member of Experimental Psychology Society
  • Member of the British Feeding and Drinking Group
  • Associate Member of the Royal Society of Medicine