Emma Richardson is a Chartered Psychologist and nicotine dependence researcher who completed her PhD at the University of Bristol examining the psychological and neurological mechanisms underlying tobacco addiction. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals on craving triggers, habit formation, and behavioural interventions for smokers. She currently holds a senior research position at a Russell Group university while providing consultancy to smoking cessation programmes.
Dr Emma Richardson obtained her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Edinburgh before completing a PhD in Health Psychology at the University of Bristol, where her doctoral thesis examined the neuropsychological basis of nicotine craving and the role of environmental cues in triggering relapse. She has spent twelve years researching why nicotine is so addictive, how the brain adapts to regular nicotine exposure, and why certain individuals struggle more than others to quit smoking despite strong motivation. Emma's research utilises neuroimaging techniques, behavioural experiments, and longitudinal studies tracking smokers through quit attempts using various methods including vaping. She has published over 30 peer-reviewed papers and contributed to major reports informing UK tobacco control policy. Her expertise bridges the gap between laboratory science and real-world application, helping people understand why they experience specific cravings at particular times and how to develop effective coping strategies. Emma is particularly interested in why vaping succeeds where other nicotine replacement therapies fail for many smokers, attributing much of this to the behavioural and sensory aspects of vaping that patches and gums cannot replicate. Her writing translates complex addiction science into practical guidance that helps people understand their own nicotine dependence and navigate the psychological challenges of becoming smoke-free. She is a Chartered Member of the British Psychological Society and adheres to strict ethical guidelines in all her research and public communications.