director of the Programme in Placebo Studies and the Therapeutic Encounter

The Director of the Programme in Placebo Studies and the Therapeutic Encounter oversees research exploring how placebos—like sugar pills—can produce real health effects through mind and expectation. Their role involves guiding scientific investigations into the psychological and physiological mechanisms behind placebo responses, aiming to improve medical treatments and patient care. They also study the therapeutic relationship between healthcare providers and patients, understanding how communication and trust influence healing. Overall, their work advances knowledge of the mind-body connection, helping to develop more effective, ethically sound healthcare practices.