Associate ProfessorRachel Laws

Rachel Laws leads a program of research focused on the development, evaluation, and large‑scale implementation of nutrition and movement interventions in the first 2,000 days of life. Her work is distinguished by a strong emphasis on equity, with a focus on improving outcomes for priority populations, including culturally and linguistically diverse communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. She applies implementation science to bridge the gap between evidence and practice, ensuring effective interventions are embedded within routine health systems and sustained at population scale.

Her research is characterised by long‑term, partnerships with government and community organisations, enabling translation from controlled trials to real‑world delivery. This is exemplified by the statewide scale‑up of the INFANT program, which has achieved substantial reach, practice change, and policy impact across Victoria and beyond. Her work has informed policy and investment decisions and is recognised globally as a leading example of successful research translation.

Rachel has published over 130 peer‑reviewed papers (80% in Q1 journals), with an H‑index of 33, and more than 3500 citations. She has secured ~$2.8 million as lead investigator and contributes to major national and international research programs. Her contributions have been recognised through the Deakin Vice‑Chancellor’s Research Impact Award (2025), Faculty of Health Partnerships in Practice Award (2023), and the Victorian Young Tall Poppy Science Award (2023).