Hayley Cullen-Xiang
DietitianI am an Accredited Practising Dietitian, having originally trained as a microbiologist. I completed my undergraduate degree with first-class honours at the University of New South Wales in Sydney.
I worked for several years as a medical researcher and laboratory manager at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, and Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute.
My research focused on developmental biology, with a particular interest in early brain development from the prenatal period onwards. Throughout my research career, I was passionate about the “bench-to-bedside” journey — translating scientific discoveries into meaningful outcomes that could improve people’s lives.
However, I became increasingly aware that the commercialisation of medical research often prioritises treatment and cures rather than prevention, despite the importance of addressing both ends of the health spectrum.
This realisation led me back to university to complete a Master’s degree and retrain as an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD). I wanted to work at the intersection of science and health, helping to bridge the gap between research discoveries and practical strategies that support better health outcomes.