Directors
Professor Kate Stevens | Institute Director
Human-Machine Interaction
Kate Stevens is Director of the MARCS Institute and a cognitive scientist specialising in music, movement and human interaction. Her research explores how people perceive, learn and perform complex actions, using approaches from psychology and neuroscience. Kate applies this work to areas such as human–machine interaction, communication and creativity, advancing understanding of brain function across diverse real‑world contexts.
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Professor Gregory Cohen | Director of ICNS
Neuromorphic Engineering
Gregory Cohen is Director of the International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems (ICNS). His research has transformed visual sensing and established the field of neuromorphic space imaging. A pioneer in using neuromorphic sensors for space applications, his work supports object tracking, Earth observation, and Space Situational Awareness, driving major international research efforts in the field.
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Professor Chris Davis | Director, Higher Degree Research
Speech Perception & Multisensory Communication
Chris Davis is Director of Higher Degree Research at the MARCS Institute and studies how people understand speech and language in everyday life. His work examines how the brain combines sound, vision and linguistic information to support communication, from early language learning to understanding speech in noisy or complex environments as we age. By studying communication across the lifespan, his research helps explain how humans adapt their listening and language skills as conditions change.
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Professor Paola Escudero | Director of Research
Language Development
Paola Escudero is Director of Research at the MARCS Institute. Paola is a linguist whose work focuses on speech and visual processing in diverse populations across the lifespan, including monolingual and multilingual infants, young children, and adults as well as zebra finches. Her research deepens understanding of language learning and supports more inclusive approaches to education, communication technologies and language development in culturally diverse societies.
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Professor Susan Hespos | Director, Impact and Engagement
Infant Learning & Developmental Psychology
Sue Hespos is Professor of Infant Studies, Leader of the BabyLab and Director of Impact & Engagement at the MARCS Institute. Sue is a developmental psychologist whose research explores infant language acquisition, cognitive development and learning. Her work challenges long‑held assumptions about early learning and informs education, child wellbeing and lifelong cognitive development.
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Associate Professor Joyce Siette | Deputy Director
Dementia Risk Reduction
Joyce Siette is the Deputy Director of the MARCS Institute and a member of The Age Lab. Joyce is a health services researcher focused on reducing dementia risk and supporting healthy brain ageing across the lifespan. Her research explores how lifestyle, social connection and digital health approaches can improve cognitive wellbeing, particularly for older adults and diverse communities. Joyce is committed to translating research into practical, community‑based programs that empower people to take an active role in their brain health.
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