Katherine Parsons

My research interests are predominantly in Behavioural Science and Implementation Science. My PhD focuses on codesigning a behaviour change intervention to increase physical activity in autistic young people. In addition, I have worked on a diverse range of projects in the discipline of social marketing, applying behavioural science to campaigns aimed at tackling ‘wicked’ social problems. I have supported the development of campaigns for obesity prevention, breastfeeding uptake, nutrition, smoking cessation, county lines/child criminal exploitation, and gender-based violence.

I am a steering group member for the Welsh Innovation Network's Health and Wellbeing programme. The Health and Wellbeing steering group takes a multidisciplinary approach to “Healthy Places, Healthy Behaviours,” with a particular emphasis on diet, physical activity, and obesity. Its work is underpinned by cross-cutting themes of place, health inequalities, and co-approaches such as coproduction. I have an ongoing project which aligns with the network's Health and Wellbeing programme, exploring the drivers of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs).

Alongside a colleague, I organised and delivered the Neurodiversity Network Conference for two years (2023 and 2024), where we showcased the talent of neurodivergent researchers and students here at Aberystwyth University. 

Student recruitment and marketing. 

Psychology social media.