A Research Visit to Trondheim
Posted by: Tara McGuicken
Earlier this year, I was fortunate to be awarded funding from the AAPS CDT International Travel Scheme to undertake a research visit at an international research institution.
After doing some research, I approached Professor Christian Klöckner who leads the Citizen, Environment, and Safety (CES) research group at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). This group explores the individual, social, and contextual drivers of environmental decisions across domains such as food, energy, housing, and – most relevant to me – mobility. Professor Klöckner’s research on car use, and on models of ecological behaviour that incorporate unconscious factors like habits, also aligned closely with my PhD research, which explores the interrelation between the transport environment context and car-use habits.
After some email introductions, we agreed on a three-week research visit in September 2025. The aim of this research visit, considering its short duration and the fact that I was coming to the end of my PhD, was to gain some expertise from the research group to aid my final phase of writing, engage in some networking and build connections, and immerse myself in a different research team and culture.
Arrival and First Impressions
Arriving in Trondheim, the third largest Norwegian city (which still felt quite small to me!), I was struck by the presence of efficient modes of transport – lots of biking, walking, e-bikes, and e-scooters! I settled in and got to know the area and my apartment, which was conveniently located between the city and the NTNU campus, where I would be working.
The beautiful city of Trondheim!
Academic Experience
During my time at NTNU, I was based in the CES research group, sharing an office with other visiting interns. This environment provided daily opportunities for informal discussion and knowledge exchange, which proved invaluable in broadening my perspective and helped me to settle in quickly.
I had the chance to observe and support several ongoing projects within the group, including discussions around CircleUp, a project investigating behavioural interventions for circular behaviours, and looking over a bid proposal. These opportunities gave me useful insight into how large-scale research projects are structured and funded in Norway, and into the kinds of methodological approaches that are shaping current work in this field.
One of the highlights was presenting my research to the group. I shared findings from my study on how different types of transport environment disruptions can act as ‘moments of change’ for more sustainable travel behaviour. The Q&A and feedback was extremely helpful as I was finalising the draft of this PhD paper at the time. Beyond formal presentations, I also had numerous conversations with group members about shared interests, which have opened the door to potential future collaborations!
The visit was also extremely productive for my own PhD – at times feeling like a work retreat. Having uninterrupted time and a new working environment helped me complete the final draft of one paper and a first draft of another!
The institute for psychology – where I was based for three weeks.
Beyond Academia
Outside of work, I took the opportunity to explore Trondheim and the surrounding nature. I also travelled further afield, visiting Oslo and the stunning fjords of Western Norway!
Hiking in Åndalsnes, West Norway
Reflections
Overall, the visit was extremely valuable, both academically and personally. Professionally, it allowed me to share my research, gain constructive feedback, and connect with an international network of researchers working at the intersection of psychology, behaviour, and sustainability. It was also a confidence-building experience, giving me a sense of what joining a new research group after my PhD might be like and sparking ideas for future projects.
I am extremely grateful to the AAPS CDT International Travel Scheme for making this visit possible. The experience has strengthened my research and left me with valuable connections that I hope will shape the next stage of my academic journey!
