PhD Researcher  ·  Based in Barcelona

Hi, I’m Michelle.
I love a good challenge.

About

I’m a PhD researcher in Consumer Psychology and Neuromarketing at the Neuro and Digital Marketing Lab at IQS Barcelona, exploring how identity, emotions, and stereotypes shape decision-making and sustainable behaviour.

Alongside my research, I bring practical experience in marketing strategy, content, and brand communication across agencies, startups, and consulting projects.

I got into academia because I saw it as a challenge and found a topic that genuinely excited me. I’m extroverted, direct, and I love communicating ideas, whether in a research presentation, a strategy session, or a conversation over a good coffee.

Consumer Psychology Neuromarketing Marketing Strategy Content Creation Brand Strategy Speaking SEO

🔬 PhD Research

Studying how identity, stereotypes and emotions shape sustainable behaviour and consumer decisions.

📣 Marketing & Content

Strategy, content creation, social media growth, and brand positioning across agencies and consulting projects.

🎤 Communication & Speaking

Presenting research at international conferences and bringing ideas to life in front of audiences.

🌍 International Background

Lived and worked across Germany, Spain, and Australia. Fluent in 4 languages.

Research

Academic
work.

Conference

Presentation at the European Marketing Academy (EMAC) in Bath, UK

June 2026 · EMAC Annual Conference

Conference

Presentation at the European Marketing Academy (EMAC) in Madrid

June 2025 · EMAC Annual Conference

Publication

My money, my problem: How fear-of-missing-out appeals can hinder sustainable investment decisions

Meyer, J. H., Friederich, F., Matute, J., & Schwarz, M. · 2024 · Psychology & Marketing

Read paper ↗
Book Chapter

Cryptocurrencies and consumer behaviour: Insights and practical guidance based on experimental conjoint analysis

Friederich, F., Schwarz, M., Meyer, J. H., & Matute, J. · 2024 · Advances in Blockchain Research and Cryptocurrency Behaviour · De Gruyter

Read chapter ↗

A few things you won’t find in the formal bio

A little more
about me.

Beyond research, marketing and the usual CV things, I’m someone who goes the extra mile to find speciality coffee, trains handstand and calisthenics, loves good food, sushi and finding new restaurants in Barcelona, and a bit of adrenaline.

Also: I speak four languages, I’ve jumped out of a plane twice in Australia, and yes, I do pull-ups.

🤎 Speciality coffee lover
🤸 Training handstand and calisthenics
✈️ Jumped out of a plane twice in Australia
🌍 Fluent in four languages
🗺️ 32 countries travelled
🏙️ Lived in 5+ international cities
🍣 Basically a Barcelona restaurant scout
💪 And yes, I do pull-ups

Get in touch

Let’s
connect.

Whether it’s about research, collaboration, or just a good conversation, I’d love to hear from you.

„My biggest driver is excitement. When I am on fire about an idea, I perform at my best and spark that energy in others.“
Michelle Schwarz