September 2018-Present: Ulster University Coleraine, PhD in Public Health

September 2014-July 2018: Queen’s University Belfast, BSc Food Quality, Safety & Nutrition with Professional Studies-1^st Class Honours.

Thesis Title: The role of iodine and thyroid function in pregnancy and child development: The Seychelles Child Development Study.

Thesis Abstract: Iodine, a nutrient rich in fish, is required for optimum neurodevelopment. This PhD aims to investigate the role of iodine nutrition in child development within the SCDS. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis is planned, evaluating determinants of iodine nutrition during pregnancy and implications on neurodevelopment. In NC2 maternal thyroid hormones and child urinary iodine concentrations will be examined in relation to cognitive outcomes at 20 months and 7 years. Genetic factors that influence iodine nutrition will also be investigated. Overall, findings of this research will support existing knowledge on the important role of iodine during pregnancy on cognitive development.