Professional Summary: Professor Eric Tan
Professor Eric Tan is a distinguished academic at the University of Queensland, Australia, recognized for his expertise in clinical psychology with a focus on mental health and psychosis. His work integrates psychological theory with innovative research methodologies to advance understanding and treatment of severe mental disorders. Below is a detailed overview of his academic journey, contributions, and impact in the field.
Academic Background and Degrees
Professor Tan has a robust academic foundation in psychology, with degrees that reflect his dedication to the field:
- Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, University of Melbourne, Australia
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology, University of Melbourne, Australia
Research Specializations and Academic Interests
Professor Tan's research primarily focuses on:
- Psychosis and schizophrenia, particularly the cognitive and emotional mechanisms underlying these conditions
- Delusions and belief formation in mental health disorders
- Development of novel therapeutic interventions for severe mental illnesses
- Application of experimental psychology to clinical settings
Career History and Appointments
Professor Tan has held several significant academic and research positions, showcasing a progressive career in psychology:
- Associate Professor, School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia (current position)
- Research Fellow, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors
Professor Tan has been recognized for his contributions to clinical psychology and mental health research:
- Early Career Research Award, Australian Psychological Society
- Fellowship, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Australia
Key Publications
Professor Tan has authored numerous impactful publications in peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to the literature on psychosis and mental health. Selected works include:
- Tan, E. J., & Rossell, S. L. (2017). 'Cognitive mechanisms of belief inflexibility in schizophrenia.' Cognitive Neuropsychiatry.
- Tan, E. J., et al. (2020). 'Emotional processing deficits in psychosis: A meta-analysis.' Schizophrenia Bulletin.
- Tan, E. J., & Thomas, N. (2019). 'Therapeutic approaches to delusion formation in schizophrenia.' Journal of Abnormal Psychology.
Influence and Impact on Academic Field
Professor Tan's research has had a profound impact on the understanding of cognitive and emotional processes in psychosis. His work on belief inflexibility and delusion formation has informed clinical interventions, providing evidence-based strategies for therapists working with individuals experiencing severe mental illnesses. His contributions have been widely cited, influencing both academic research and clinical practice in psychology.
Public Lectures, Committee Roles, and Editorial Contributions
Professor Tan is actively engaged in the broader academic community through various roles and contributions:
- Invited Speaker, International Congress on Schizophrenia Research (multiple years)
- Member, Australian Psychological Society, Clinical College
- Editorial Board Member, Cognitive Neuropsychiatry
- Reviewer for several high-impact journals, including Schizophrenia Research and Psychological Medicine