Current research projects
My work examines how humans respond to high-intensity states, and why these experiences result in either transformation or destabilization. It spans pharmacological and non-pharmacological contexts, with a focus on altered states induced by 5-MeO-DMT and freediving as complementary domains for studying regulation, adaptation, and performance under intensity.
Research Programme I) 5-MeO-DMT: Physiological States and Longitudinal Outcomes
Why do some 5-MeO-DMT experiences catalyse lasting integration and wellbeing, while others tip into dysregulation or adverse outcomes? This programme is built around that divergence. Rather than assuming a uniform psychedelic effect, it traces how individual trajectories unfold over time, from acute experience to longer-term recovery and adaptation. Using a longitudinal, observational framework, the research examines how bodyset, acute physiological transitions (conceptualised as Pivotal Physical States), and post-experience recovery dynamics interact to shape outcomes. The experience is not approached as a purely psychological phenomenon; instead, the nervous system and underlying physiology are treated as central drivers of both immediate effects and enduring change.
Research Programme II) Altered States Under Extreme Physiology
Freediving, diving without breathing apparatus, has been shown to alter consciousness, giving rise to perceptual, cognitive, and affective states that in some cases closely resemble those reported under psychedelics. The mechanisms underlying these experiences remain poorly understood. While explanations centred on hypoxia, hypercapnia, and narcosis are plausible, they do not seem fully account for the phenomenology reported by divers. This research programme explores the possibility that extreme breath-hold states engage endogenous neurochemical processes, including the hypothesised release of DMT, and examines how these naturally induced states compare to pharmacologically induced psychedelic experiences.
What connects these fields
Although these domains may appear different, they are governed by the same underlying mechanism: intense experiences are processed through the body. The outcomes are shaped not only by the experience itself, but by the baseline physiological state, the regulation of the nervous system, and the ability to integrate what occurs.
Why this research matters
High-intensity experiences are becoming more common, across therapeutic settings, performance environments, and everyday life. Yet most people are not trained to handle them. The result is often overwhelm instead of growth, and stress accumulation instead of adaptation.
My work focuses on one central question: how to design and navigate intense experiences so they lead to stability, clarity, and meaningful longerterm change. This research is applied across domains, including retreat design and advisory, facilitator training, performance under pressure, and the development of systems and frameworks to structure transformative experiences.
Funding and Support
These research programmes are ongoing, with opportunities for aligned funding and collaboration to support extended data collection and longitudinal work. For inquiries: get in touch.