This research uses artificial intelligence to analyse immune-system data and predict vaccine effectiveness. By identifying early biological signals associated with strong, long-lasting immunity, the work aims to improve vaccine design, personalise vaccination strategies, and support development of universal vaccines capable of protecting against rapidly evolving infectious diseases.

This thesis examines who turns to AI for mental health support, rather than whether AI can be a therapist. Drawing on TherapyGPT forum analysis and ongoing experiments, the research identifies fear of judgment, trust in AI and past therapist failures as possible drivers of AI therapy use.

This research examines whether air pollution affects risk-taking behaviour. Using survey data from 40,000 Indonesians and satellite pollution measurements, it shows that higher pollution levels make people more risk-averse. Because risk preferences influence education, careers, entrepreneurship, and innovation, cleaner air may improve both health outcomes and economic decision-making.

This study examines the relationship between sexual position discordance, sexualized substance use, and sexual satisfaction among nearly 2,000 sexual minority men in Canada. While discordance between preferences and behaviors was common and not linked to lower satisfaction, frequent use of substances such as crystal meth and poppers was associated with reduced sexual satisfaction.

This thesis examines the Soviet AIDS epidemic as a social and political crisis rather than solely a medical one. Through newspapers, diaries, and government documents, the research reveals how AIDS contributed to growing public distrust in Soviet institutions and became part of the broader crises preceding the collapse of the Soviet Union.

This research explores how to improve STI testing uptake within African and Caribbean communities in the UK. Using evidence reviews, interviews, and co-production workshops guided by the ACE framework, the project develops community-informed sexual health interventions designed to increase trust, accessibility, and acceptance of STI testing while reducing stigma and health inequalities.

This research develops antibacterial nanostructured surfaces inspired by natural materials such as cicada wings. The engineered surfaces physically rupture bacteria using nanoscale needle-like structures, avoiding traditional antibiotics and reducing the likelihood of antibiotic resistance. The technology could improve infection control in medical devices, implants, and hospital environments.

This research investigates compassion fatigue among preschool educators, particularly those working with children exposed to trauma and adversity. Through surveys and statistical analysis, the study examines links between empathy, workplace conditions, and emotional exhaustion. The findings aim to improve educator support systems, reduce burnout, and strengthen early childhood education environments.

This research examines how alcohol affects the severity and outcomes of suicide attempts among military service members and veterans. By analyzing documented attempts and personal narratives, the study reveals that alcohol often increases impulsivity and lethality, while occasionally interrupting attempts unintentionally, highlighting the need for alcohol-aware suicide prevention strategies.

This research develops biodegradable “living” water filters grown from kombucha cellulose membranes. Unlike conventional plastic filters, these biofilters can self-defend against harmful microbes and self-repair when damaged. The work aims to create affordable, sustainable, and effective water filtration systems that reduce plastic waste while improving access to clean drinking water.