Resolver Trust & Safety, a global leader in intelligence and advisory services to the online safety community, is delighted to announce a landmark research partnership with Middlesex University’s Centre for Abuse, Trauma, and Suicide Studies (CATS).
CATS is a pioneering research hub dedicated to understanding and addressing the impacts of abuse, trauma, victimization and suicide. CATS is directed by Professor of Criminology, Elena Martellozzo, Professor of Psychology, Lisa Marzano and Associate Professor of Computer Science and Cyber Security, Mahdi Aiash.
By combining psychology, criminology, technology and cutting-edge research methodologies, CATS delivers real-world solutions to some of today’s most pressing challenges. From developing algorithms to identify high-risk offenders that support law enforcement strategies, to advancing virtual reality safety and improving mental health outcomes for those exposed to child abuse material, CATS is at the forefront of harm reduction in both digital and real-world contexts.
Gary Curnow, Director of Human Capability at Resolver, said: “Partnering with Middlesex University’s CATS represents an exciting new chapter in Resolver’s commitment to safeguarding digital spaces. Together, we aim to bridge the gap between academic research and practical industry solutions, ensuring our collective expertise contributes to a safer, more resilient online environment.”
A Partnership to Address Critical Safety Challenges
This collaboration brings together Resolver’s expertise in online harm detection and risk intelligence with CATS’ leadership in trauma research and resilience building to address some of the most pressing challenges in online safety. The partnership will focus on advancing research and solutions across three critical areas:
Online Harms – We will investigate the mechanisms and escalation pathways that lead to exploitation in digital spaces. By combining Resolver’s operational expertise with CATS’ research driven insights, we aim to identify:
- Tactics used by bad actors
- Triggers that facilitate them
This work will develop proactive interventions, including predictive frameworks that redefine how online harm is detected and prevented.
Resilience and Trauma-Informed Practices – Beyond addressing harm, we will develop strategies to support victims, witnesses, and responders. This partnership will:
- Design tailored support mechanisms for individuals affected by abuse
- Provide educational resources and training to help victims recover and thrive
- Create mental health safeguards for online safety professionals, such as content moderators exposed to child abuse materials
Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention – Suicide and self-harm represent some of the most urgent challenges in online safety. We will research online risk factors—such as social media influences—and translate findings into actionable strategies. By working together, we aim to:
- Address recommendations from coroners’ “Prevention of Future Deaths” reports
- Identify catalysts for harm and opportunities for prevention
- Provide platforms, policymakers, and communities with effective tools to reduce harm
Henry Adams, Director, Trust and Safety at Resolver emphasized: “This partnership is a significant step in our mission to create safer online spaces. By combining Resolver’s expertise with CATS’ academic leadership, we’re addressing online harms while driving innovation in resilience and prevention. Protecting our staff as they safeguard users globally remains a vital priority, and this collaboration underscores our commitment to meaningful change in the trust and safety ecosystem.”
Professor Lisa Marzano added: “Suicide and self-harm are among the most pressing challenges in online safety, and we are pleased to partner with Resolver to address them. At CATS, we are dedicated to researching online risk factors—such as the impact of social media – and turning our insights into practical, actionable strategies”.
Key Areas of Collaboration
The partnership will serve as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and innovation, fostering collaboration and equipping the next generation of digital safety leaders. Highlights include:
- Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs): Academic research and industry expertise will address real-world challenges in online safety
- Educational Opportunities: Joint lectures, guest seminars, and work experience placements will empower professionals with the skills to thrive in this critical field
- Impactful Research and Thought Leadership: Co-authored studies and policy recommendations will shape industry practices on a global scale
- Master of Research (MRes) Programme: Resolver will support the development of CATS’ bespoke MRes programme, focusing on online harms, resilience, and suicide prevention
Professor Elena Martellozzo, added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Resolver, a leader in online safety. This partnership exemplifies the power of academia and industry coming together to tackle urgent societal issues. By combining our expertise, we can deliver innovative research and practical tools that make a tangible difference.”
Associate Professor Mahdi Aiash states: “Our partnership with Resolver is crucial in advancing research and innovation to tackle technology-related risks and enhance online safety. This partnership will assist us to better understand how criminals exploit digital spaces, develop tools to disrupt harmful activities, and leverage cybersecurity and AI to prevent harm from continuing.”
A Shared Vision for Safer Online Spaces
At Resolver, our mission is to stay ahead of evolving risks online. This partnership with CATS amplifies that mission by combining academic rigor with practical expertise. Together, we are addressing online harms, fostering resilience, and creating strategies to prevent self-harm—setting new standards for trust and safety.
Our work will not only protect vulnerable individuals but also shape industry-wide change, ensuring a safer digital future for all.
