Dietetics

Overview

Research is an essential part of dietetics. All dietitians are required to base their practice on good evidence which has been obtained from reliable research. Research, therefore, plays an important role for all staff and students within the dietetic team.

The active research interests of dietetic staff also include the communication of:

• written nutritional information
• nutritional assessment and screening in diverse populations
• food hypersensitivity in children
• evaluating practice-based interventions to improve nutritional well-being particularly in gastroenterology 

We have a commitment to research activity by contributing to the evidence base which underpins dietetic practice and providing our students with an environment that encourages them to engage with research and how it is translated into dietetic practice.

Undergraduate dietetics research

Students on the BSc (Hons) Dietetics are introduced to research during their first year and undertake a module in research methods in year you.

This provides a valuable opportunity to learn about a wide range of study designs, methodologies and analysis. This learning is then applied in the final year when each student has the opportunity to carry out their own research project which many of them start during the summer between the second and final year.

We encourage students to engage in real investigations and work collaboratively in a supervised manner with dietitians and other healthcare professionals outside the University. Ideas from students and potential collaborators are welcome.

Read the story about past students who have successfully presented their research at national level. 

Download list of undergraduate projects undertaken in 2011

Download list of undergraduate projects undertaken in 2012

Postgraduate dietetics research

Registered dietitians can undertake postgraduate research through a number of routes. Students on the MSc Dietetics (Advanced Practice) undertake a postgraduate taught module in research methods before undertaking their research dissertation.

Those who wish to have a greater focus on research at Master's level and above while undertaking fewer taught modules can apply to undertake a research award that includes a pathway through Master's of Research (MRes) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) to Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Staff dietetics research

For additional information about dietetic research, please view our recent publications.

Staff involved in dietetic research are:

• Dr Angela Madden
• Jane McClinchy
• Ruth Towell  - HHSRI research award 2011
• Caireen Roberts