Student Highlights
From a passion in health research to Doctor
Dr Li Kheng Chai has always been passionate about food and health. Discovering the Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics offered through the International Medical University in Malaysia in partnership with The University of Newcastle, she knew this would be a career pathway she enjoyed.
“My first research project was completed during my honours year (final year of undergraduate) which was when I realised the benefits that research could bring to impact food and health of the people,” she said.
Taking an interest in research led Dr Chai to undertake her PhD to further her studies utilising innovative technology to develop, deliver and evaluate nutrition and lifestyle interventions to improve children’s health and diet.
“This had marked the starting chapter of my journey in becoming a health researcher,” she said.
Now, since completing her PhD, Dr Chai works as a Research Fellow at Health and Wellbeing Queensland, Queensland’s first dedicated prevention agency for obesity and poor nutrition.
“I integrate research with practice and work at the coalface alongside health professionals, communities, and policymakers.
“My current research focuses on public health and prevention through system changes associated with obesity, nutrition and physical activity, working to shape healthy food environments in schools, First Nation communities and developing technology based healthy lifestyle programmes for families and children,” she said.
Recalling her study experience, Dr Chai says the experiences and education was invaluable to her career, including the opportunity to study with internationally renowned experts.
“The quality of teaching and opportunities for practical experiences were key to my learnings and skills development as a dietitian. The time I have spent at The University of Newcastle has helped shape my character and build resilience so that I am prepared for the future ahead,
The mentoring and guidance I received from the teaching staff were invaluable. Not only did I learn about the course subjects, but I also developed soft skills throughout my studies which are more important skills that have contributed positively to my career journey,” she said.
During her Bachelor, Dr Chai undertook three practical placements. Working with dietitians across multiple settings provided vital learning experience and helped to prepare her for a clinical dietitian role where she worked after completing her degree.
“I was fortunate to be learning directly from a clinical dietitian in the general surgery ward at the John Hunter Hospital, which has strengthened my knowledge in clinical nutrition and developed skills in medical nutrition therapy,” she said.
Attributing her study environment to helping her achieve her career goals, Dr Chai credits The University of Newcastle’s atmosphere and study support to her academic success.
“The University of Newcastle has certainly helped me develop academically and professionally, however, it has also offered a safe learning environment with appreciation for cultural diversity which is important for me as a young international student studying abroad and living miles away from home,” she said.
Dr Chai encourages other students wanting to apply to follow their passion and do things that feel great to them and to not be afraid of taking a different path.
"Follow your passion and do the things that makes you feel rewarded. Do not be afraid to take a path that may seem different from others. Your future is whatever you make it.”
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Dr Li Kheng Chai
Completing a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2013, Dr Li Kheng Chai has since gone on to complete a Doctor of Philosophy. Discovering a love of research during studies, Dr Chai now works as a Research Fellow at Health and Wellbeing Queensland.
The mentoring and guidance I received from the teaching staff were invaluable. Not only did I learn about the course subjects, but I also developed soft skills throughout my studies which are more important skills that have contributed positively to my career journey..
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