Tilburg University has appointed Dr. Sabita Soedamah-Muthu as Professor of Lifestyle Epidemiology and Health Psychology within the Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences (TSB). The chair focuses, among other things, on developing interventions to improve health and quality of life for patients with conditions such as diabetes and/or cardiovascular diseases, as well as healthy individuals with suboptimal lifestyle habits.
Healthy lifestyle choices, such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management, are crucial for maintaining both mental and physical health. However, many people struggle to sustain these changes in the long term. New full Sabita Soedamah-Muthu will therefore investigate how psychological and biological factors influence behavioral change and how digital technologies, such as mobile apps and wearable sensors, can assist in promoting and maintaining healthy habits.
Improving lifestyle behavior through technology
The chair is part of the Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology at Tilburg University and is closely linked to the Center of Research on Psychological Disorders and Somatic Diseases (CoRPS). The research will focus on improving lifestyle behaviors for various target groups, including people with chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and individuals with low socioeconomic status and diverse ethnic backgrounds. Through this chair, the Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology aims to contribute to the well-being of individuals in our increasingly digital society.
In addition to research, Sabita Soedamah-Muthu contributes to teaching at the university, with a special focus on the course in Medical Science in the Master’s program in Medical Psychology. She also contributes to the recently launched university-wide Digital Health minor, where students, among other things, learn how technology can contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Sabita Soedamah-Muthu: "I have a tremendous passion for research and teaching, and I am deeply honored by this appointment as full professor. I hope to be a good example and inspiration for others. I would love to pass on my passion to others so that they can explore these important topics."
Marc van Veldhoven, Dean of the Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences (TSB), is pleased with the appointment: "The role of a healthy lifestyle in the health and quality of life of various patient groups cannot be overstated. This chair will provide an important boost to research, teaching, and impact in this socially relevant field."
