Centre for Appearance Research (CAR)
CAR is changing how the world sees bodies through science.
We are on a mission to conduct and use research to help people and society accept and appreciate all bodies.
Our vision is to expand our impact beyond academia, creating a world where diversity in appearance is fully valued.
Our work is grounded in excellence, leadership, social impact, community, equity and belonging.
If you're interested in being kept up-to-date with opportunities to take part in research run by CAR, you can sign up to CAR's participant pool. Anyone aged 16 or above can sign up, whether or not you have a condition that affects your appearance.
About
Find out how our research transforms lives.
Research themes
Discover our themes, projects, publications and PhD research.
Members
Details of our centre's members, visiting academics, staff and PhD students.
Collaborations
Our partnerships support the needs of many individuals.
Resources
Online training, videos and media resources.
FAQs
Answers to your frequently asked questions.
News and events
Attend our Appearance Matters Conference and much more.
Publications
Publications from members of the Centre for Appearance Research.
Contacts
We welcome enquiries about our work - please get in touch.
Appearance Matters Podcast
Appearance Matters: The Podcast is all about appearance, featuring exclusive interviews with experts in the field. It is hosted by Dr Nadia Craddock, Dr Maia Thornton, and Abbi Matthews on SoundCloud.
Transcripts of the podcast episodes are now available to request. These are being updated on a regular basis. If there is a specific episode transcript you would like to access, please contact us (car@uwe.ac.uk).
Appearance Matters: The Podcast
Episode 101: Appearance, sexuality, and gender
In our latest podcast episode, Senior Research Fellow, Dr Maia Thornton, delves into a discussion with Associate Professor Virginia Ramseyer-Winter from the University of Minnesota, and PhD student, Savannah Roberts, from the University of Pittsburgh. Their rich discussion explores the role of appearance ideals and body image in the context of sexual health and relationships, as well as appearance norms across different sexualities and genders, whilst underscoring the importance of intersectionality. Tune in to learn more.
Changing how the world sees bodies
The esteemed British Psychological Society (BPS) has featured our podcast in their official publication, The Psychologist, as it approaches important milestones – our 100th episode and 10 years disseminating and discussing research and relevant topics surrounding appearance-related issues.
Read the article
Why we study appearance
Transforming tomorrow, today.
Our unique approach to research, innovation, skills, enterprise and just and ethical practices is driving societal improvements and transforming futures for the better.
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