Prof. Dr. Jan Keller
Professor of Health Psychology at the Department of Psychology of Heidelberg University, HCE member since 2026
In my research, I examine the interplay between psychological factors, behavioral change, and health and climate protection. My work primarily focuses on the following three questions:
- What are the relationships and mechanisms of action between psychological factors and behavioral change?
- How do interventions or measures aimed at changing psychological factors and behavior impact health or climate protection?
- How can we use our behavior to drive systemic changes for climate protection?
Why I joined the HCE
When I began working as a professor of Health Psychology at Heidelberg University in April 2025, I had already heard about the HCE and was thrilled that it brings together expertise in environmental and climate protection research. I believe that psychology plays an important role in this context, because human experience and behavior also determine how environmental and climate protection will be addressed in the future. I would like to contribute my expertise in health and environmental psychology while also learning from other scientific disciplines, with the goal of developing joint project ideas based on this collaboration.
My highlights so far
A highlight for me was the 2026 retreat in Lobbach—a place in the Odenwald with beautiful natural surroundings, where we were able to focus on developing new project ideas. As a relatively new HCE member, I got to know other HCE members in a “family-like” atmosphere. I was inspired by the openness, curiosity, and dedication of the HCE members, as well as the friendly camaraderie within the group.
My key partners
In principle, I can envision collaborating with all departments, as I see psychology as a field that lends itself well to interdisciplinary work. There are already ongoing collaborations and project ideas with colleagues in political science, geography, global health, as well as toxicology and pharmacology.