Roy Hessels studied Psychology and Applied Cognitive Psychology at Utrecht University and obtained a doctorate here in 2017. His dissertation 'Toward early markers for autism spectrum disorder using eye tracking' was awarded cum laude (top 3-5% in the field).

His main research interests are eye movements and the role they play in interaction with others and the world. In his research, Roy uses wearable eye trackers and dual eye-tracking setups, and his participants range from infants to adults. More broadly, Roy conducts research on human interaction, visual perception, and eye-tracking methodology.

Roy is connected to the YOUth cohort of the Consortium Individual Development (CID) and Dynamics of Youth (UU).