Jennifer Ayton

Jennifer Ayton is a Senior Lecturer in Public Health at the Tasmanian School of Medicine (University of Tasmania), leading the Health and Society domain in the MD program. She holds a PhD in Sociology and Master of Research (Midwifery), with certifications as a Registered Midwife/Nurse. Her work bridges midwifery practice and public health education, emphasizing socially accountable healthcare.

Education: PhD in Sociology (University of Tasmania, 2011–2016), Master of Research in Midwifery (Deakin University, 2010). Professional qualifications include AHPRA registration for Midwifery and Nursing (2023–2024).

Research Interests:

• Maternal, newborn, and reproductive health
• Social determinants of health and inequities
• Infant feeding practices, particularly breastfeeding and paternal roles
• Arts-in-health methodologies and community engagement

Recent research highlights include studies on breastfeeding challenges post-return-to-work, father involvement in infant feeding, and antenatal testing for BBVs/STIs. Her work aligns with UN SDGs #3 (Health), #5 (Gender Equality), and #10 (Reducing Inequalities).

Grants and Awards:

• $24,000 Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation grant (2025) for BBV/STI testing data linkage
• $20,000 Anglicare Tasmania contract for Baby & Me Program evaluation
• Tasmanian Early Years and Australian Postgraduate PhD Scholarships

Teaching: Coordinates core medical curriculum units (e.g., CAM101, CAM201) focusing on health equity and social accountability. Supervises 6+ PhD candidates on topics like maternal trauma, rural health, and breastfeeding policies.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with Dr. Emily Hansen on maternal/paternal health research programs. Active in interdisciplinary projects addressing healthcare inequities and policy.