- University of East Anglia
- School of Environmental Sciences
- Norwich
- NR4 7TJ
- UK
Kate Lachowycz
PhD research: Green space and physical activity
The aim of Kate’s research is to evaluate the relationship between green space and health, particularly physical activity. A number of studies have shown that exposure to the natural environment and green space is associated with improved health outcomes but the evidence is mixed and the mechanisms underlying these associations are still poorly understood. This research aims to address this by improving our theoretical understanding of the relationship and using analytical methods to test specific associations based on data collected at both local and national levels. There is also potential to contribute to improving methodologies (such as modelling approaches) and use GPS data to measure how people actually use green space.
Link to more about PhD
This research is part of the Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR). The PhD supervisors are Andy Jones and Graham Bentham at UEA and Simon Griffin, MRC Epidemiology Unit.
Background and experience
After graduating with a degree in Biological Anthropology from Cambridge University, Kate worked for eight years in the field of public health intelligence, which included both work in academia as a Research Fellow and senior analytical posts within the NHS, most recently at a Public Health Observatory. She also gained an MSc in public health from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Kate’s particular areas of specialism and interest are environmental epidemiology, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the interface between research and practice within public health.
Email: k.lachowycz ‘at’ uea.ac.uk