DB's Pixnet

the psychologist, may 2012
page 360
At the interface
Jon Sutton interviews Trevor Robbins CBE(University of Cambridge)

I hear that the two 'department' of psychology in Cambridge--Experimental Psychology and Social and Developmental Psychology--look set to merge. How has that come about?  

That's an impressive piece of investigative journalism! I can confirm that this historic merger is likely to take place, pending the decision of the University's General Board. The factors leading to it have been based on teaching and research considerations, as well as a desire to simplify admissions for promising sixth formers who wants to read psychology at Cambridge. In terms of teaching, we will now have a new 'Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Tripos'. This will allow students to be admitted to read psychology, including initially biological and experimental, as well as developmental and social aspects. Those students doing the Natural Science Tripos(i.e. some combination of chemistry, physics and biological courses) will also still be able to study psychology, as at present.

On the research front, the Department has wanted to have a broader as well as greater critical mass which will allow us to develop exciting new bridging areas such as social neuroscience and behavioural economics, as well as consolidate our joint strengths in developmental psychology, including our newly established Center for Neuroscience in Education...

David CK Chang, SSN057-86-4042,
June 19, 2012, Tuesday,
National Central Library,
Taipei City