The Baker Deakin Department of Lifestyle and Diabetes is a joint initiative between the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute and the Deakin Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition.
We’re turning cutting-edge prevention and management science into real-world impact for people living with, or at risk of, type 2 diabetes. We unite researchers, clinicians and community practitioners to deliver prevent and manage type 2 diabetes through lifestyle-based solutions.
Type 2 diabetes is one of the greatest preventable health challenges of our time. By bringing together the complementary strengths of two world-renowned institutes, we are building new evidence and practical solutions to change its course.
Our research
Building on the long history of collaboration between Deakin and the Baker Institute for public health research, the Baker-Deakin Department of Lifestyle and Diabetes focuses on improving and promoting evidence-based approaches to support people living with type 2 diabetes and those at risk of the disease.
Epidemiology
Understanding how physical activity, sedentary behaviour and diet interact to shape health outcomes across the population.
Experimental
Conducting controlled laboratory experiments to clarify how physical activity, sedentary behaviour and diet influence key biological pathways.
Intervention
Investigating the extent to which changing physical activity and sedentary behaviour influences chronic disease prevention and management through real-world randomised controlled trials.
Implementation
Turning evidence on the benefits of moving more, sitting less and eating well into best practice, and assessing its effectiveness and policy implications.
Get involved
Opportunities for students
Build your research skills while contributing to work that improves public health outcomes. We offer supervision for PhD and postdoctoral research, along with placements and early career opportunities.
Participate in research
Help shape future health solutions by taking part in our studies. We run a range of clinical trials and lifestyle programs open to individuals and communities.