New doctoral student: Maria Briggert Bengtsson

What will your thesis be about?

"My PhD thesis will focus on parental support within child health services. We will translate, adapt, and evaluate an Australian child feeding program called PICNIC for the Swedish context."

"PICNIC provides parents of young children with both knowledge and practical tools to reduce stress and pressure around mealtimes. The program focuses on helping parents understand how children learn to eat and how parents and other caregivers can respond to and manage challenges related to food and eating."

Why are you interested in this research area?

"I have worked as a dietitian in child health services for many years, and in that role, we have identified a gap and an unmet need that I hope this program will help address. So, when the opportunity arose, it was impossible to resist."

What did you do before starting your doctoral studies at MedH?

"I have worked as a clinical dietitian in primary care, supporting children and adults, and with development within child health services. I also have a somewhat diverse background, with education and experience as both a chef and a graphic designer."

What are you looking forward to during your doctoral studies?

"What I look forward to most is being involved in developing and building something that can hopefully benefit children and families."

"And, of course, I am excited about continuing to grow professionally and learn new things. I think this will be a very exciting experience. And a little bit scary too..."