Melissa Pavetich

Melissa Pavetich is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Heriot-Watt University, where her research focuses on social psychology, particularly intergroup relations, prejudice, intergroup contact, and meta-perceptions. Her work examines how people perceive the ways members of other groups view and treat them, and how these perceptions shape intergroup attitudes, emotions, and behaviour. A central focus of her research is meta-humanization - the belief that members of an outgroup see one’s own group as fully human - and its potential to reduce prejudice, bridge divides between majority and minority groups, and improve relationships between groups in conflict. Her broader research programme explores the psychological processes underlying intergroup conflict, dehumanization, and political polarization, with the aim of identifying ways to foster more positive, inclusive, and cohesive societies. 

Melissa completed her PhD in Social Psychology at the University of Greenwich in the United Kingdom. Melissa holds several leadership roles, including Chair of Psychology Departmental Research Ethics, and Year 1 and 2 Coordinator.