Melinda Hutchesson

Melinda Hutchesson is an Associate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Newcastle, affiliated with the School of Health Sciences. She holds roles including Head of Discipline for Nutrition and Dietetics and Deputy Theme Lead for Nutrition & Dietetics in the Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition. Her research focuses on developing eHealth technologies to address weight management and chronic disease prevention in young adults, particularly targeting women's health and cardiovascular risk reduction.

Education:

• PhD in Nutrition & Dietetics, University of Newcastle (2011)
• Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours), University of Newcastle

Research Interests:

Dr. Hutchesson specializes in translational research to bridge digital innovation with dietary interventions. Her work emphasizes:

• Designing web-based and mobile interventions for weight loss/prevention
• Postpartum cardiovascular health interventions for women with hypertensive disorders
• University student health behaviors and campus food environments
• Systematic reviews on eHealth efficacy and behavior change techniques

Awards:

• 2015 Vice-Chancellor's Award for Research Excellence & Innovation
• 2017 Dietitians Association of Australia Conference Best Poster Prize
• 2012 Casual Teaching Excellence Award

Grants/Supervision:

Lead investigator on NHMRC-funded AIM4ME trial. Supervises projects like Be Positive Be Healthe and EATS initiatives. Collaborates on trials involving SP Health Co and Hunter New England Health.

Labs/Teams:

Member of the Priority Research Centre in Physical Activity and Nutrition. Leads interdisciplinary teams in developing video-coaching platforms (VITAL change) and telehealth practices.