51

Skip navigation

Professor Leigh Riby

Professor

Department: Psychology

Leigh Riby 255He obtained his PhD in 2001 from Bristol University (executive functioning in old age) before moving on to Stirling to undertake a post-doctoral position investigating episodic memory using EEG and fMRI methodology.  Leigh also held a lectureship at Glasgow Caledonian University.

Prof. Riby began his academic life studying for a PhD at Bristol University in experimental psychology on the topic of attentional control and multi-tasking in ageing. He then moved on to Stirling University to obtain his post-doctoral training in the use of multimodal brain imaging in the investigation of human memory. This early work was influential in driving his interest in the use of mixed methodology (behavioural, neuropsychological and imaging) to explore some of the critical research challenges in the field of gerontology.  For instance, a programme of work is using brain imaging techniques (EEG and fMRI) to examine self-generated thought and mind-wandering patterns across the lifespan. The research examines how differences in brain network connectivity in ageing between temporal and prefrontal brain regions predicts positive impacts on behaviour (e.g. creativity; problem-solving; positive aspects of self-reflection).  Beyond fundamental science, his intervention work aims to use what we have learnt in the lab to build novel and engaging programmes to encourage the use of untapped brain resources, promoting enhanced mental performance and wellbeing as we grow older. Prof. Riby’s work overall aims to lead theoretical and methodological development of successful and less successful ageing (e.g. diabetes; dementia) with the emphasis that decline is not inevitable. Further interests include the nutritional neurosciences, cognitive neuroscience of mindfulness/meditation and the link between mindful running and psychological wellbeing.

  • Psychology PhD October 01 2007
  • Psychology BSc (Hons) September 01 1993


a sign in front of a crowd
+

Northumbria Open Days

Open Days are a great way for you to get a feel of the University, the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and the course(s) you are interested in.

Research at Northumbria
+

Research at Northumbria

Research is the life blood of a University and at 51 we pride ourselves on research that makes a difference; research that has application and affects people's lives.

+

Find out what life here is all about. From studying to socialising, term time to downtime, we’ve got it covered.


Latest News and Features

Pair of feet walking on a treadmill
51 fashion graduate Abbie Inwood
Woman looking at prison
Roslynn Nunn North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust Lynette Shotton (Associate Professor, Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing,  51) Cheryl Elliot (Assistant Professor, Nursing, Midwifery and Health, 51)
Lol Crawley with his Oscar for Best Cinematography
An example of stromatolites investigated in the study found in the Cheshire Formation of the Belingwe greenstone belt, Zimbabwe. Photo credit: Professor Axel Hofmann
More news

Back to top