Lauren Ball

My work delivers impact through translating research into changes in education, policy and practice that improve health and wellbeing at scale.

A key area of impact has been strengthening the role of nutrition and prevention within medical and health professional education. My research has contributed to changes in how nutrition is taught and assessed in medical education globally, supporting its inclusion within curriculum frameworks and accreditation standards. This work has helped shift nutrition from a peripheral topic to a recognised component of clinical training, influencing how future doctors are prepared to support individuals to live well over the long term.

I have also generated impact through system-level leadership in primary care, community health and health service organisations. Through Company Director and leadership roles with Primary Health Networks, government agencies and peak bodies, I have used evidence to support improvements in workforce development, commissioning approaches and health care service design. This has influenced how nutrition, prevention, mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and priority population programs are prioritised and delivered at regional and local levels.

As leader of the Springfield Living Lab, I have established a place-based platform that embeds research and evaluation within a real-world community. This work has enabled the co-design and testing of new models for prevention and health care, creating data systems that support long-term, scalable impact. The Living Lab approach has positioned Springfield as a national exemplar and informed broader conversations about how universities can work differently with communities to deliver public value.

In addition to research and translation, I contribute to impact through leadership and governance. I am a recognised high-performing research leader who capably brings together multidisciplinary teams, enables emerging researchers and unites diverse teams through a shared vision and momentum. I apply evidence, strategic thinking and financial acumen to support the sustainability of health and wellbeing at scale. Collectively, my work demonstrates how embedded community presence, genuine partnership, and innovation can strengthen social license and expand universities' role in advancing societal wellbeing.