Alicia Thorp

Dr Thorp graduated in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology with First Class Honours at the University of South Australia in 2003 and subsequently went on to complete a doctorate in Nutritional Physiology at the University of Adelaide. Dr Thorp joined the Physical Activity Laboratory at the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute in 2008 to undertake research in the area of sedentary behaviour and health.

Dr Thorp's research specifically focuses on experimental studies to reduce sedentary behaviour in working adults in order to improve cardiovascular disease and diabetes risk. She also has an interest in the complex interaction between sedentary behaviour and poor snacking behaviour. Dr Thorp is currently studying the effects of using electric, height-adjustable work stations that require workers to stand up at their desks for short periods throughout the day on blood sugar and lipid levels. It is envisaged the results from her investigation will help to inform the development and implementation of future workplace innovations, programs, policies and strategies to reduce sedentary behaviour and have a widespread impact on the cardiovascular health of Australians. Dr Thorp was awarded a National Heart Foundation Post-Doctoral Fellowship (in Public Health) in 2011 and is also a Registered Nutritionist.