About
Fernanda Gomes Da Mata is a Research Fellow at BehaviourWorks Australia, an applied behavioral science research unit within Monash University. She is affiliated with the School of Psychological Sciences in the Faculty of Arts. Her work bridges academic research and real-world application, focusing on behavior change, cognitive assessment, and policy impact across health, finance, and environmental sustainability.
- PhD in Psychology, Monash University (2017)
- Master’s in Neurosciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Fernanda's research interests lie at the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science. She investigates cognitive and neural mechanisms in food-based decision-making, particularly in youth, with applications to obesity prevention. Her expertise extends to consumer behavior, risk culture in finance, and designing evidence-based interventions for public policy. She applies behavioral insights to domains such as public transport, recreational reading, and emergency response engagement.
Her recent publications reveal a strong trend toward applied behavioral science, integrating psychological theory with practical solutions. Topics include measuring risk culture in finance, increasing engagement with health apps, and understanding trust in authorities during public health crises. Her work consistently emphasizes evidence-based, data-driven approaches to behavior change.
- Thesis nominated for Monash University Mollie Holman Doctoral Medal
- Vice Chancellor’s Commendation for Thesis Excellence
- Dean’s Award for Thesis Excellence
Fernanda has led and contributed to numerous research grants and collaborative projects, often serving as Chief Investigator. Her work is funded by both academic and external partners, reflecting its policy relevance. She collaborates across disciplines, including with government and non-profit organizations, to embed behavioral science into real-world operations. While no formal students are listed, her role involves mentoring through team-based research and consultancy.
She is actively involved in projects through BehaviourWorks Australia, a leading center for applied behavioral science. Her work is embedded in interdisciplinary teams focused on translating research into practice, particularly in public sector innovation and social impact initiatives.
