Led by Dr. Emma Meaburn
Based at Birkbeck, University of London, Dr. Emma Meaburn’s research programme sits at the intersection of genomics, child development, and education. The group uses contemporary genomic methods to investigate how variation in DNA sequence contributes to individual differences in children’s cognitive and behavioural development, and how these genetic influences are shaped and mediated by social and environmental contexts.
A central aim is to understand the mechanistic processes by which biological and environmental pathways influence child development, providing the evidence-base needed to inform effective educational policy and practice.
Dr. Meaburn also serves as Deputy Director of the Centre for Educational Neuroscience (CEN). The CEN is a cross‑institutional research centre which supports evidence-informed education via translational research and dialogue between neuroscience, psychology, and educational policy and practice.
Research focus
The group’s work spans four closely connected strands:
• Genomics and individual differences
We study how genetic variation contributes to differences in children’s behaviour, cognition, and learning, mapping the pathways through which these influences unfold across development.
• Gene–environment interplay
We integrate genetic and environmental data to explore how family, educational, and social experiences shape developmental outcomes, and moderate or mediate genetic effects.
• Evidence-based translation and policy engagement
We aim to build the evidence-base for potential real-world use of genomics in education, while clearly defining the practical limits of genomic data.
• Ethical considerations
We believe that genomic research, particularly in relation to education, must be conducted, interpreted, and communicated with care. Our research is guided by careful consideration of how it might affect children, families and wider society.
Current doctoral researchers
• Ms Nisa Rainy (PhD, 2022–ongoing)
• Ms Hattie Ruffer (PhD, 2024–ongoing)
• Ms Mahitab Elgamal (PhD, 2024–ongoing)
Past doctoral researchers and postdoctoral fellows
• Dr Rebecca Harrison – Postdoctoral Researcher (2018–2020)
• Dr Georgina Donati (PhD, 2015–2018)
• Dr Anna Gui (PhD, 2015–2018)
• Dr Ayden Saffari (PhD, 2013–2016)
• Dr Kate Hughes (PhD, 2013–2016)