RSU psychology student research group: shaping the next generation of specialists

The Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) psychology student research group brings together students from the first, second and third years of the Psychology bachelor’s programme, as well as teaching staff and visiting lecturers, to explore current topics in psychology from both theoretical and practical perspectives. The aim of the group is to develop research and professional skills, promote critical thinking, and examine contemporary research methods and emerging technologies in psychology (for example, the development of psychological tools for screening cognitive disorders and assessing adolescents’ mental health).

MSc Agnese Ušacka, Acting Lecturer at the RSU Department of Health Psychology and Pedagogy and mentor of the RSU psychology student research group, says: ‘I have been the group’s mentor for three consecutive years, and I would describe the group as a community of open, inquisitive, and curious minds, where students and lecturers jointly explore the multifaceted world of psychology, share experiences, and inspire one another to make new discoveries. The group meetings, which take place once or twice a month, are attended by lecturers and visiting lecturers of the RSU Psychology programme, including PhD Elīna Zelčāne, Asst. Prof. PhD Sanita Šuriņa, PhD Kristīne Šneidere, lecturer Mg. psych. Zane Gulbe, and other professionals in the field.’

Unlike lectures and classes, this format allows participants both to explore topics of interest in depth and to discover new areas of study. The student research group is headed by RSU Psychology bachelor’s student Brigita Sāra Rodina, who shares her insights: ‘Participating in the RSU psychology student research group provides an opportunity to expand knowledge in psychology, develop research skills, and learn about the latest technologies available in Latvia, such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and eye-tracking methods used in research.

You can meet like-minded people at the meetings, engage in discussions on current topics in psychology, and deepen your understanding of psychology as a branch of science and research,’

Rodina says. She emphasises that the group’s meetings facilitate establishing contacts with professionals in the field and provide an opportunity to explore the latest developments in psychology as a science in Latvia. They spark diverse discussions and debates, inspiring students to pursue new research directions and broadening their perspective on psychology as a dynamic and evolving discipline.

You can follow the group’s news on its Facebook page, as well as attend the group’s meetings as a listener and receive a certificate at the end of the academic year without prior registration.

Topics for the 2025/2026 academic year: