As a Heart Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, Dr Kissock's projects aim to improve cardiovascular health by supporting the switch from regular salt to potassium-enriched salt across the globe.
Tell us a bit about yourself...
I am a Research Fellow in the Food Policy Division at the George Institute for Global Health, Heart Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, and Conjoint Lecturer in the School of Health Sciences at ºÚÁÏÍø´óʼÇ. I am also an Accredited Practising Dietitian with experience working in chronic disease and youth mental health.
What’s your research all about, and what’s the most exciting part for you?
I am currently working on various research projects to support the switch from regular salt to potassium-enriched salt across the globe to improve cardiovascular health. My work specifically focuses on 1) the nutrition, health and cost impacts of switching regular salt to potassium-enriched salt including in packaged foods, and 2) healthcare professionals recommending a switch to potassium-enriched salt for the management of high blood pressure. I find it exciting working across global research projects and seeing the large-scale impact that small actionable changes such as a switch from regular salt to potassium-enriched salt can have on the health of populations.
What's a recent achievement you're most proud of?
I was awarded a competitive Heart Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship that started earlier this year – this fellowship provides me the opportunity to continue important research into switching Australian consumers and food manufacturers to potassium-enriched salt to prevent hypertension, cardiovascular disease and premature death.
As an ECR, what’s been one of your biggest challenges, and how did you tackle it?Â
One of my biggest challenges as an ECR has been balancing progress on my research projects while trying to build my track record and apply for grants/fellowships. As an ECR it is tricky to juggle all these research aspects, however, it helps to be strategic in which activities you agree to do and consider what aligns with your interests. While it is important to take opportunities when faced with them, it is also okay not to say yes to every single one (something I am still learning to do!).
What activities keep you inspired and energised?Â
My out-of-work hobbies/activities always help keep me grounded and motivated - I’m a very sporty person who enjoys playing soccer and Oztag, running and Pilates. I am also an avid reader with particular interest in crime/thriller fiction and a goal of reading 30 books this year.
