Background

My main interests include the prevention of cognitive decline through lifestyle intervention and psychological issues during the perinatal period.

I have completed an Honours degree in Psychology, Masters of Professional Psychology and a PhD in exercise and nutrition science.

I have worked as a University tutor, Research assistant, Research Fellow and Clinical Trials Coordinator on multiple trials at Deakin University and University Hospital Geelong. I am also currently working as a Psychologist in private practice.

My long-term goal is to pursue a career researching the area of cognition, primarily neurological conditions (dementia) as well as to complete my training to become a Clinical Psychologist.

Research Focus

My current research focus is on the prevention of cognitive dysfunction following surgery. She is currently preparing data from the PANACEA trial for analysis, with plans to conduct a future observational study investigating the effects of lifestyle factors (exercise, nutrition and sleep) on post-operative cognitive function.

Awards & Achievements

  • School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences Higher Degrees by Research Writing Award
  • Australian Postgraduate Award Scholarship
  • Published Chapter 39 in the book titled “The Mediterranean diet: an evidence based approach, 2nd ed”

Feature Publications

  • Peri-Operative Risk Factors Associated with Post-Operative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD): An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses of Observational Studies, Journal of Clinical Medicine (JCM) February 2023
  • Chapter 39: The mediterranean style diet and cognition, Elsevier July 6, 2020
  • Effect of lean red meat combined with a multicomponent exercise program on muscle and cognitive function in older adults: a 6-month randomized controlled trial, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition Jun 2020
  • Nutrition and Exercise Approaches to Enhance Muscle, Mobility, and Cognition During Aging: 10th International Symposium, Nutritional Influences on Bone Health Jan 2019

About me...

Pets:

 

 Teelo (Maltese Shitzu x terrier) & Tilly (Moodle)
Footy team:

 

 Melbourne/ Sydney
Signature dish:

 

 Vegetarian lasagne
Coffee order:

 

 Hot chocolate with marshmallows

How you can help

Participate in a Clinical Trial

To find out about Clinical Trials currently underway at Barwon Health, click here. To learn more about the Adrian Costa Clinical Trials Centre, click here.

Donate

Research requires ongoing investment and there are several ways to support our work. You can make a donation today and contribute to an item on our research group’s wish list, consider a bequest in your will, or establish a lasting legacy fund in your name. No matter what size, your philanthropic support will deliver an immediate impact to this important work. To donate now or for more information, please contact the Barwon Health Foundation.

Page last updated: December 3, 2025