Karin Haas

Dr. Karin Haas is a Professor at Bern University of Applied Sciences, School of Health Professions, where she serves as Co-Head of the Interdepartmental Institute on Ageing. Her work bridges nutrition science, digital health innovation, and public health policy implementation across multiple research domains including women's health, gerontology, and community nutrition.

Her research interests focus on digital solutions for nutrition counseling, health promotion across the lifespan, and evidence-based interventions for specific population groups. She has pioneered work in mHealth applications for dietary counseling through projects like smartSolution, developed standards for health-promoting communal catering, and currently leads the "Menopause in focus" project addressing women's health needs during menopause transition.

Dr. Haas's publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to nutrition science, particularly in digital health applications, with recent work examining pandemic impacts on health behaviors, remote dietary counseling effectiveness, and nutritional needs of vulnerable populations. Her research shows a clear trajectory toward integrating technology with evidence-based nutrition practice.

As a research leader, she has secured funding from Swiss federal agencies and university sources to advance projects addressing critical public health nutrition challenges. Her work bridges academic research with practical implementation through strong partnerships with healthcare providers, government agencies like the Federal Office of Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs, and community organizations.

Dr. Haas leads the Interdepartmental Institute on Ageing and has directed significant projects including smartSolution (a smartphone-based weight management system), RehaBot (AI interface for rehabilitation), and current work on menopausal women's health needs. Her research methodology emphasizes participatory approaches that incorporate end-user perspectives to develop relevant, sustainable health interventions.