Deakin University’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN) is a world-leading research institute specialising in healthy lifestyle approaches to prevent and manage chronic conditions and improve wellbeing. We place a high value on consumers having a say about our research.

Our Consumer Network is a group of people from all ages and backgrounds who help us with all aspects of our research – including designing, developing and delivering research that can be used in the real world.

We are inviting people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and immediate family members of people living with MS, to join our network and share their thoughts and ideas on research about MS. Some examples of this research include exploring the role of diet in the progression of MS, the development of a nutrition education program for people with MS and exploring whether the consumption of ultra-processed foods influences the onset of MS.

Our Consumer Network members tell us that the benefits of their involvement go beyond research outcomes. They report that they have built their own skills and knowledge through their involvement, and that they feel they have made a genuine contribution to research projects.

To get involved or find out more visit the IPAN website or contact the IPAN Consumer Network Coordinator: jean.crewe@deakin.edu.au.