Fiona Ling

Dr Fiona King

Lecturer in Sport & Exercise Psychology

What area does your research focus on?

My research focuses on behaviour change, primarily on understanding what makes people physically inactive and how to promote physical activity. Going hand-in-hand with this research interest is mental health and resilience. In recent years, I gradually situate my work to inform and influence policy in order to make real-life impact on physical inactivity and health inequality.

What are the other key aspects of your role?

I have been a deliverable lead for an international consortium that links research with policy makers in 37 countries. In my role, I’m responsible for strategically planning for the works involved in the deliverable, including building a core team to drive the activities and the delivery outputs. In teaching, I have been a module lead for a number of modules at BSc and MSc level. I’m also a co-lead for a research group Child & Adolescence Research Exchange (CARE).

What do you like to do outside of work?

My greatest passion is travelling! To date, I’ve visited 52 countries. I absolutely love travelling because it helps me understand people from different cultures, and see the goodness in people regardless of their race, ethnicity, or where they grow up. Another favourite hobby is sampling foods from different cultures, as I can listen to many beautiful stories about fond memories, relationships, and not least cultural identity.

What do you think you could particularly offer mentoring support with?

Through the international consortium and my PhD supervision experience, I have offered mentorship at both professional and personal level as these aspects are intricately linked. At the professional level, I can provide guidance to any hurdles encountered during the PhD journey, and of course, to share the joys of the experience along the way. I can also provide insights into the career paths as an academic, and possibly connections beyond the PhD from my international network. On a personal level, as a psychologist, I always keep my ears open for any challenges that life may throw at you, or at anyone!