What did you study at A-level and why did you select those subjects?
Biology, Chemistry, and English Language — they were the subjects I enjoyed the most.
What degree and PhD did you study?
I studied Molecular Biology as an undergraduate, then completed an MBA in Human Resource Management. After a change of direction, I went on to do an MSc in Research Methods in Psychology, followed by a PhD in Psychology.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I enjoyed biology the most at school and sixth form and was particularly interested in it at a cellular level. This was at a time when huge advances were being made in genetics (e.g., Human Genome Project, Dolly the sheep) and forensics (DNA fingerprinting — and I loved the TV show CSI!).
What key skills did you learn at university?
Independent study, resilience, and strong writing and presentation skills.
What jobs have you had during your career?
I have always been an academic, but I have also done many part-time jobs, including working in call centres, shops, supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and as a steward at Liverpool Football Club.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I am a Professor of Food Marketing and Child Health in the Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health. I love having the autonomy to pursue research questions I am curious about, working with wonderful people who have brilliant ideas, and making a difference in the world.
Do you have an area of expertise?
I specialise in researching how and where food marketing occurs, how it affects behaviour, and in supporting governments worldwide to develop and implement effective restrictions.
What has been your most exciting project?
Probably giving evidence to an inquiry in the House of Lords or leading projects for the World Health Organization, I’ve been very lucky to have had fabulous opportunities at this level and to travel to some lovely places while doing them.
What are your top tips for working in your sector?
Protect your work-life balance, follow your curiosity and passions and learn to say no and mean it!
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Focus on what you enjoy and don’t get bogged down in what you “should” be achieving.
Any advice you’d like to share?
Work more effectively, not longer. It is possible to have a successful academic career and have children.
Why are you passionate about your career?
I find it fascinating what we choose to eat and why, and how we all have different relationships with food and the food environment around us. I think it is amazing to have a job where I can study this, continue to learn, and use that knowledge to try to make things better (e.g., support policies that will improve the food environment).
More resources:
Article: Inaugural Lecture: “The Assassin of Joy? Tackling Food Marketing to Improve Public Health”
Commercial Determinants of Health: Implications for Health Interventions
Emma's department staff profile.