26 September 2025 - Project Early Findings Ignite Momentum at Essex Business School Conference
Breakthrough insights from neurodivergent workers captivate academic audience
On September 25, Dr. Raysa Rocha took the stage at the Essex Business School Conference, unveiling compelling early findings from the groundbreaking research on neurodivergent workers and workplace well-being. The 90-minute session transformed into an electrifying exchange of ideas as scholars from diverse disciplines leaned into the research's profound implications.
The presentation didn't just share data, it sparked conversation. Academics engaged deeply with the project's innovative dual-researcher interview methodology, where at least one neurodivergent researcher conducts each session, ensuring authentic perspectives shape every insight. Dr. Rocha walked attendees through the realities of data collection: the unexpected challenges of scheduling with neurodivergent participants, the emotionally dense experiences that emerged, and the deliberate accommodations built into the research design.
What made the session particularly powerful? The collaborative energy. Attendees didn't simply listen, they questioned, challenged, and contributed suggestions that will strengthen the research's next phase. Their enthusiasm reinforced what this project represents: a genuine opportunity to reshape how organizations understand and support neurodivergent talent in the UK's technology sector.
The momentum builds toward March 2026
The journey accelerates now. The team is racing toward critical milestones: finalizing survey data collection, conducting rigorous reflexive thematic analysis of interview transcripts, and crafting studies that will redefine inclusive workplace practices. Every piece of data brings us closer to actionable insights that will transform organizational culture.
Mark your calendar: March 25, 2026 (registration). The Co-creation Event at Essex Business School promises to be the project's defining moment, where research meets practice, and neurodivergent voices directly shape practical solutions for HR professionals and policymakers.
This isn't just research. It's a movement toward workplaces where every mind thrives.
25 August 2025 - Social connections matter for the well-being of neurodivergent workers
In our article in The Conversation, "Social connections matter for the well-being of neurodivergent workers – adjustments to office settings and routines aren’t enough" we look at some of the first responses to our interviews.
Although many companies focus on physical adjustments, such as changes to lighting and provision of noise-cancelling technology, this is just one step in workplace adaptations. One of the first highlights from this research has been the importance of a diverse social environment for neurodivergent staff, who can benefit from more varied communication channels, and explicit networking pathways.
10 April 2025 - Neurodiversity Awareness Month
To mark Neurodiversity Awareness Month we published a blog on "Celebrating neurodivergent minds in academia: A symphony of different ways of being".
In the blog we discussed how neurodivergent academics can use their skills and talents to contribute to research and explore complex concepts from unexpected angles, while acknowledging the "diversity" within neurodiversity and how support that works for one person may not work for all.
21 March 2025 - Project kickoff
In celebration of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we are thrilled to launch our British Academy/Leverhulme-funded research project: "Neurodivergent workers and well-being: Socialization and meaningful relationships in the workplace"!
About the Project
Our research team, led by Dr. Raysa Rocha (University of Essex) with co-investigators Dr. Siddhartha Saxena (Heriot-Watt University) and Dr. Louise Nash (University of Essex), is investigating how neurodivergent professionals in the UK's technology sector develop and maintain workplace connections.
This two-year study (March 2025 - February 2027) focuses on understanding the role of "weak ties" – acquaintances and distant connections – in the social networks of neurodivergent individuals across all work environments.
Why this matters
Neurodivergent workers (including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others) bring valuable perspectives and talents to the technology sector but often face unique challenges in forming social connections. These connections are crucial for:
- Career development opportunities
- Information access
- Job satisfaction
- Overall well-being
By understanding these dynamics, we aim to develop evidence-based strategies for creating more inclusive workplaces that foster meaningful professional relationships for all employees.
Get involved
If you are a neurodivergent professional in the UK tech sector interested in participating in our research, or if your organization would like to collaborate with us, please get in touch with Dr Raysa Rocha at raysa.rocha@essex.ac.uk.
Next steps
Over the coming months, our team will be:
- Conducting an extensive literature review
- Partnering with technology companies and neurodiversity organizations
- Developing and piloting our survey instruments
- Beginning data collection in Spring 2025
Stay tuned for regular updates as we progress through this important work!
