Ph.D. Psychology, University of Lincoln, U.K.
Post-doctoral fellow, The Ohio State University Medical Center
Department of Neurology..
Ashleigh Hillier’s main research interests include neuropsychology, psychophysiology, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The focus of her research is the processing and understanding of affective material among those on the autism spectrum. Dr. Hillier’s research includes investigations of emotional memory, physiological responsiveness and subsequent memory for emotion eliciting stimuli, and the effects of psychosocial stress on cognition among those with ASD.
Dr. Hillier’s applied research focuses on programs for adolescents and young adults on the autism spectrum including “The Network” Program, a support group for UMass Lowell students with ASD “Connections”, and a “Student to Student mentoring program” for UMass Lowell students registered with Student Disability Services.
Ashleigh also directs the Center for Autism Research and Education (CARE).
The Center for Autism Research and Education (CARE) conducts research and provides services which aim to improve the lives of those impacted by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). CARE is run by faculty at UMass Lowell from disciplines across the university including psychology, music, education, economics, nursing, clinical lab and nutritional sciences, and chemical engineering.