Monique Ratts, Ph.D.
University of Surrey, Guilford, Surrey, U.K.

My expertise is in the area of public health and behavioural nutrition research, gained on a variety of projects. My research is wide ranging both in terms of topics covered (e.g. food choice, policy development, food safety) and methodologies used (e.g. qualitative, quantitative, stakeholder consultation). Since my arrival in 2000, I have played an instrumental role in the success of the Food, Consumer Behaviour and Health Research Centre, securing over 3.4 million pounds of research funding, of which approximately two million pounds as principal investigator.

I previously worked at the Institute of Food Research, Health Education Authority (which was replaced by the Health Development Agency, which is now part of National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)) and the National Centre for Health Outcomes Development at the University of Oxford. I have gained recognition in my area of research at national and international level, with experience of leading research teams in both national and cross-national projects, as well as experience of working with policymakers and other relevant stakeholders. My research experience is complimented with skills gained whilst working at the Health Education Authority, providing me with invaluable insight both into the needs of health professionals and the practicalities of national scale health promotion and health education.

I am one of the founding members, member of the Board of Directors (2001-2006) and recent secretary (2004-2006) of the International Society of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. The society was set up to combine interests in diet and physical activity, advancing and now plays an important role in fostering excellence in research in this field.