Stephen Murphy

Background

About Stephen Murphy

Stephen Murphy is a postdoctoral researcher at the research group Media, Innovation and Communication Technologies (imec-mict-UGent). He primarily works on Project DISCONNECT a large-scale ERC-funded research project that aims to advance understanding of the link between digital media use and wellbeing. Stephen has input on all parts of this project. However, he is particularly invested on the data-analysis side - ensuring insights from the collected experience sampling data are maximized (by leveraging machine learning techniques, multilevel-models, network analyses, etc). Stephen joined imec-mict-UGent in October 2022, after a postdoctoral role (2019-2022) at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, where he led an experience sampling project that tested a novel psychological theory of hedonic overconsumption. Prior to this, Stephen completed a PhD (2015-2019) at Loughborough University, UK. During this time he advanced research demonstrating that self-determined motivation is critical to optimal behavioural engagement, by providing evidence this link is partly a function of an increased ability to following through with one’s intentions/goals. Prior to this, Stephen completed a BSc and MSc in Sport and Exercise Science at Teesside University, UK, where he also enjoyed periods as a Sports Science Technician, University Teacher in Psychology, and Fitness Instructor. Stephen’s research interests broadly align with the projects he has engaged in during and since his PhD, and is particularly interested in engaging in research aimed at better understanding the link between digital media use and wellbeing. Stephen also has an interest in meta-science work that aims to improve scientific practice in psychology.