Research Topic
From Interface to Intake: The Influence of Platform Affordances, Dark Patterns, and Algorithmic Personalisation on Food Choice and Purchasing Behaviour
Research Summary
My PhD, titled 'From Interface to Intake: The Influence of Platform Affordances, Dark Patterns, and Algorithmic Personalisation on Food Choice and Purchasing Behaviour,' examines how the design of digital food platforms — in particular, food delivery apps — shapes consumer food choices and contributes to health inequalities. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from consumer behaviour, public health, and digital marketing, my research investigates how interface mechanisms, algorithmic personalisation, and persuasive design techniques influence eating behaviours, particularly among vulnerable populations. My broader research interests sit at the intersection of digital food environments, consumer behaviour, and health inequalities. I am particularly interested in the lack of regulatory oversight governing digital food marketing and its implications for public health, sustainable food systems, and policy development.
Supervisor(s)
- Professor Mary Brennan - Lead Supervisor
- Professor Susan Dunnett - Second Supervisor
- Dr Isabel Fletcher - Co-Supervisor
Research Area
Background
I am a doctoral researcher in Management at the University of Edinburgh Business School, with an academic background spanning nutrition, food science, dietetics, and personalised preventative health. Prior to my doctoral studies, I worked as a community food practitioner and nutritional therapist, supporting some of the most disadvantaged populations and addressing health inequalities through education and access initiatives at a community level. This work, alongside my MSc research into digital food environments, sparked my return to academia to investigate how digital platforms are reshaping food choice and consumer behaviour. Alongside my doctoral studies, I serve as Board Director for Edinburgh Community Food and PhD Representative on the Business School EDI Committee, where I contribute to strategic governance, policy review, and inclusive decision-making. I am a Registered Nutritionist (mBANT, rCNHC) and continue to deliver clinical consultations addressing chronic health conditions through evidence-based nutritional science.
Education and Qualifications
| Institute | Degree/Qualification | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| University of Edinburgh Business School | MSc Research | 2024 - 2025 |
| College of Naturopathic Medicine | Dip Nutritional Therapy | 2015 - 2018 |
| Osmania University | MSc Nutrition & Dietetics | 2001 - 2003 |
| Osmania Unversity | BSc Food Science & Nutrition | 1998 - 2001 |
Professional and Voluntary Experience
- 2025-present: Board Director, Edinburgh Community Food, Edinburgh
- 2024-2025: Community Food Practitioner, The Health Agency, Edinburgh
- 2019-2024: Community Food Development Officer, The Ripple Project, Edinburgh