Isaac Williams is from the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work and is one of the recipients for the 2025 Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Doctoral Thesis Excellence.
Isaac thesis was titled “The Interaction between Mood, Dietary Restraint, and Emotion Regulation on Eating Behaviour”
We invited Isaac to share what his research was about, what this award means and advice to current students.
What is your research about?
My research investigated the link between emotions and eating behaviour in chronic dieters. Specifically, I examined whether negative moods and difficulties in regulating emotions were the driving forces behind unhealthy food choices.
What does winning this award mean?
While my name might be on the award, I truly see this win as a reflection of the incredible team I had around me throughout the journey. A PhD can’t be a solo effort, and I’m so proud that this work has been recognised as a nod to the everyone that helped out along the way. But a huge shout-out needs to go specifically to my supervisor, Prof Eva Kemps; whose guidance (and unbelievably efficient drafting) was absolutely instrumental to the project’s success.
Where are you now?
I am currently working as a psychologist at a fantastic private practice, where I get to apply my research every day. The analytical and clinical skills I honed during my PhD have been invaluable in informing the evidence-based treatments I provide, ensuring my clients receive the highest standard of care.
What advice would you give to current or prospective PhD students?
The first thing is to manage your expectations: this journey isn’t finished overnight. Give yourself permission to be flexible and slow down to find a pace that’s going to be sustainable for the whole 3-4 years. Secondly, and most importantly, remember your supervisors are on your team! Reduce that pressure of imposter syndrome by being okay with submitting rough drafts and asking questions you feel stuck with. Leaning on your supervisors for support when you need them is what they’re there for.