Jessica Scaife
PhD
Research Manager
I have over twenty years experience designing experimental paradigms. A Neuropsychopharmacologist and Cognitive Neuroscientist, my research combines neuroimaging, electrophysiology and stimulation to investigate the neural and pharmacological basis of reward and emotion. During my 20 year postdoctoral career, I investigated brain function in both patient populations and healthy volunteers, using MRI and MEG. I ran studies in experimental medicine, Phase 1 and 3 clinical trials, including deep brain stimulation with Alex Green. I use mixed methods research to capture the lived experience of patients.
A member of the MSD PPI network, I lead PPI throughout trial development, and beyond, I am committed to developing and fostering greater connections with patient partners and charities.
I am passionate about public engagement and encouraging students to consider careers in STEM through events and work experience.
Recent publications
Effects on hippocampal activity following novel 5-HT4 receptor agonism in unmedicated patients with depression: the RESTAND study.
Journal article
de Cates AN. et al, (2026), Transl Psychiatry
Early effects of a novel 5-HT4R agonist (PF-04995274) and the SSRI citalopram on emotional cognition in unmedicated depression: RESTAND study.
Journal article
Gillespie AL. et al, (2026), Br J Psychiatry, 1 - 10
Cost Effectiveness of Local Anaesthetic Transperineal Versus Transrectal Biopsy: Results from the TRANSLATE Study.
Journal article
Little M. et al, (2026), Eur Urol Focus, 12, 227 - 236
Prepectoral no mesh versus mesh immediate implant-based reconstruction after mastectomy (Restore-B): a multicentre single-blinded randomised controlled feasibility study protocol.
Journal article
Rolph R. et al, (2025), BMJ Open, 15
Local anaesthetic transperineal biopsy versus transrectal prostate biopsy in prostate cancer detection (TRANSLATE): a multicentre, randomised, controlled trial.
Journal article
Bryant RJ. et al, (2025), Lancet Oncol, 26, 583 - 595