Nostalgia, comfort foods and cooking during COVID-19

Periods of high stress and social isolation, such as a pandemic or moving countries (or both), can have huge impacts on mental wellbeing and food behaviours. Whilst acute sudden stress tends to suppress appetite, longer-lasting chronic stress and elevated levels of cortisol can lead to cravings for hyper-palatable high-fat, sugar and calorie-dense foods. Surveys suggest we have been turning to comfort foods during this… Read More Nostalgia, comfort foods and cooking during COVID-19

13 May, 202113 May, 2021 natassia1991Leave a comment

Starting a postdoc in a new country in the midst of a pandemic

In my blog introduction I promised a recount of my experiences starting a new postdoc during the pandemic. For me at least it’s been a rollercoaster of emotions. Although a touch melodramatic, I felt that breaking it down into stages summarised the highs and lows fairly succinctly. Stage 1: Giddy anticipation twinged with dread As an avid traveller (pre-COVID), I was so excited about the prospect of moving to a new place and… Read More Starting a postdoc in a new country in the midst of a pandemic

26 March, 202124 May, 2021 natassia1991Leave a comment

Connected despite the distance

“Social distancing” has become the term of art for the public contribution to the fight against the pandemic. PhD candidates are no stranger to a world with little physical interactions. Here is a little insight from our blog into staying connected despite the physical distancing. … Read More Connected despite the distance

25 September, 202024 May, 2021 Yildiz KelahmetogluLeave a comment