Nutrition (Gene-nutrient interactions)
University of Newcastle

Dr Beckett studies gene-nutrient-environment interactions, investigating how what we eat changes the way our genes are switched on and off, and how the genes we have change what we eat, and how we respond to food. She also considers these interactions in the context of our environments; for example, how much sun we get or bad habits like drinking and smoking, and the consequences of these aspects on the way our genes and our nutrients interact.  Studying these interactions is important, because our genes, nutrition and environments all contribute to our risk of diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancers. But they don’t just add up, they also interact. By considering gene-nutrient-environment interactions, we can move towards “personalised nutrition” and away from the “one-size-fits-all” approach, helping us optimise our health throughout our lives.

Emma has a regular, weekly segment on ABC Central Coast radio, discussing research from the Newcastle campus, and connecting the University with the local community. She has guest-hosted @RealScientists, a rotational science account as well as being active on her own account.

She has been a guest speaker at a number of community events from Pint of Science to the local Rotary Club.