“Science is not finished until it’s communicated” – this quote from Sir Mark Walport, the UK government’s chief scientific advisor, is one of my favourite adages about the importance of science communication and research translation. With thousands of biomedical papers published every day, it’s becoming increasingly important to get research to the people it impacts most.
At the Food & Mood Centre, we are fortunate to have a built-in translation arm – the Food & Mood Academy, which runs training courses, webinars, and more to get research out into the real world. At its helm is the fantastic Dr Tetyana Rocks, accredited dietician, science communication specialist, and extraordinary human being. I was lucky enough to sit down with her and chat about her work, career path, and more.
Please describe your role within the Food & Mood Centre
I’ve been with the Food & Mood Centre for almost 9 years. I come from a background in dietetics and education, so my role within the centre is to translate evidence into everyday practice. I established and lead the Food & Mood Academy, which brings research to life through practical and accessible education.
Why did you choose to work at the Food & Mood Centre?
I absolutely love food, and I love research, so I thought this Food & Mood thing would suit me. I also researched Felice Jacka a little bit, and when I walked in for my interview and spoke with her, I realised there was no other place I’d rather be.
What do you wish more people knew about research translation?
Research translation doesn’t just happen – someone needs to do it. We have lots of wonderful researchers working on health problems and identifying solutions. To bring this evidence to life, we need academies like ours; we need training; we need public seminars for communities; we need people to be able to access the evidence – not just in research journals but through other channels, including our academy.
Could you describe your career path – how did you end up in the role you’re in now?
My path into my current role was probably less straightforward than that of some of my colleagues. I was born and grew up in Ukraine, and my first education was actually in management and accountancy! Although I always loved food. I loved talking about food, loved cooking, loved eating food, but I never saw a career in food as something I would pursue.
However, after moving to Australia 30 years ago, I had the luxury of choice – I could study what I wanted and work where I wanted. I chose to study Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of the Sunshine Coast in 2006, and when I started, I needed to complete some bridging courses to get into the degree, as it was very popular back then. So, I completed the tertiary preparation pathway to bridge that knowledge gap in 2006, and by 2016, I was chairing courses at the University of the Sunshine Coast! That’s my alma mater, where I did my undergrad, honours, and PhD, and I really appreciate everything that my wonderful discipline at the University of the Sunshine Coast taught me. Then I came to work at the Food & Mood Centre as a post-doc, and nine years later, here I am!
What do you hope will be the biggest impact of your work with the Food & Mood Academy?
I would love for everyone to understand how powerful food can be in supporting our health – be it mental, physical, or spiritual! Food is wonderful, food is kind, it’s nourishing, we all do it every day, so I would love to bring joy back into food and eating!
What is your favourite Mood-boosting thing to do in your own time?
I do love my yoga, but I know that’s not for everyone… so Cat Videos. Like videos that are for cats, like birds feeding, different creatures running around, you sit down on the couch and watch those videos with your cats!
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