
The UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences (PALS) brings together students, researchers, academics and professional staff to advance the scientific understanding of the mind.
By uniting psychology and language sciences in one division, PALS has become a global centre of excellence in research and teaching. We are home to a vibrant community of over 2,300 students, 120 academics, 180 researchers and 100 support staff. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework, we ranked first in the UK for the volume of research rated world-leading or internationally excellent.
Our work spans behavioural and cognitive neuroscience, language, sensory systems, memory, decision-making, therapeutic interventions, and more. We apply this expertise to pressing global challenges – from mental health and inequality to climate change and conflict.
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. We make the most of our cutting-edge facilities – including brain imaging, brain stimulation, behavioural testing and computational labs – to create outstanding learning and research opportunities. Our students learn alongside some of the world’s most innovative thinkers, preparing to become the next generation of leaders in science and practice.
Professor Peter Fonagy OBE
Head of the UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences

Sustainability
We're very proud to have been recognised by UCL as the greenest department and we're on a mission to improve the impact of UCL's estate, build community and further research.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
Our mission is to foster a stimulating, respectful, congenial and fair environment and provide equal opportunities to all of our staff and students.