Dr Abigail Webb is a Clinical Research Fellow at the Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Suffolk. Abigail completed her PhD in 2019, where her research explored human perception of facial emotion expression from psychophysical perspectives.
Abigail joined the University of Suffolk in 2022 as a Clinical Research Fellow, and since 2024 she has begun to apply her research expertise in facial expression to clinical areas. Abigail is part of a research team that includes healthcare professionals and researchers within the NHS and regional arts organisations. Her current research focus is the impact of Parkinson’s Disease on facial expression and mobility. This includes the proprioceptive and symptom management of facial hypomimia, bradykinesia and dystonia, and she has recently completed a research study examining the effects of a 12-week singing programme on facial mobility and expression capability. Abigail’s research approach is one that incorporates psychometric, evidence-based methodologies with real-world, impactful applications.
Upcoming Short Courses
Thursday 3rd December 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Singing and Parkinson’s Disease: Overview of the Evidence to Date
Dr Abigail Webb
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological disorder affecting around 166,000 people in the UK. It is characterised by a significant reduction in dopamine production that in turn causes impairments across several motor and non-motor functioning. A 2025 review indicated that singing may benefit certain aspects of speech production in those affected, and in the last decade, a collection of research studies has explored the role of singing specifically in symptom management of Parkinson’s. Join Dr Abigail Webb, as she brings together evidence to date of the impact of singing for people living with Parkinson’s.