Navigating the digital world as PhD students
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, more researchers are turning to social media to share their work, connect with a broader audience, and foster professional growth. Two of our PhD candidates, Shivangi Shah and Melissa Adamski, offer unique insights into how they leverage digital platforms, combat misinformation, and advocate for accessible health resources, particularly for women in their respective areas.
Shivangi is a Teaching Associate, Ethics Officer and is currently completing her PhD in the public health space exploring transport walking (walking to get to a destination often for everyday purposes like commuting, running errands, or accessing services). Her research aims to promote walking as an accessible form of exercise that can fit into the everyday realities of women's lives.
Melissa is an accredited practising dietitian and PhD candidate researching effective communication of nutrition information by healthcare professionals in the online era. Melissa has been leading short courses in the Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food for both public and healthcare professionals over the past ten years. She’s also the founder of Nutted Out Nutrition, a specialist nutrition business supporting travellers and the travel industry through expert food and nutrition expertise.
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For Shivangi Shah, social media has become integral to her academic journey. She specialises in the health benefits of transport walking and uses platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to document her research findings and the behind-the-scenes aspects of academic life. "My PhD page on Instagram allows me to share not only my wins but also the challenges I face," she explains. From research difficulties to balancing full-time studies with work, Shivangi's posts resonate with a diverse group of followers—ranging from fellow researchers to students considering a career in academia. Her goal is to foster a supportive, knowledge-driven community where wellness and mutual encouragement are the cornerstones.
Similarly, Melissa Adamski maintains a distinct personal and professional social media presence. While LinkedIn connects her with colleagues and industry professionals, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook help her engage with the public. Melissa emphasises the importance of understanding the purpose of each platform. "You need to choose the right platforms to reach the audience you want to connect with," she advises. "In today's world, it's not just about one-way communication anymore—social media encourages interaction and engagement, which means being open to differing opinions."
Combating misinformation online
In an era where misinformation spreads quickly, managing the accuracy of health-related content online is a crucial issue. Shivangi believes that credible, evidence-based information must not only be accessible but also engaging. "My goal as a researcher is to make complex data relatable and easy to digest so people trust and apply it to their lives." Through various media outlets, including a podcast with SBS News (Headlines on Health) and interviews with ABC Radio Perth, Shivangi has shared the health benefits of transport walking, a message that has reached a broader audience through these accessible platforms.
She stresses the importance of partnerships with credible organisations and influencers to amplify truthful information. "Fostering media literacy is equally critical. We need to empower people to critically evaluate the health messages they come across, especially in a time when misinformation can have such deep impacts."
For Melissa, combating misinformation suggests an additional approach. Rather than simply labelling misinformation as "wrong," she suggests understanding why it resonates with people in the first place. "We want people to continue turning to experts for information, but experts need to present it in ways the public wants to learn," she explains. By understanding what makes misinformation appealing, experts can develop content that is both evidence-based and engaging. This can ultimately help combat the spread of false information while promoting healthy, accurate messaging.
Making digital health resources accessible to women
Shivangi agrees that making digital health resources more accessible and effective for women requires an inclusive approach. She also emphasises the importance of designing platforms that are culturally sensitive, user-friendly, and responsive to the diverse needs of women. "It's about meeting women where they are—whether they are juggling careers, caregiving, or managing mobility challenges," she says.
Growing your presence online
For students looking to grow personally or professionally through social media, both PhD candidates offer similar advice: be authentic and intentional. Shivangi can’t stress the importance of consistency and authenticity. "Don't just follow trends—find a space that reflects your passions and expertise. Engage deeply with your audience by providing meaningful content, and don't be afraid to show who you really are."
Melissa echoes this sentiment, emphasising clarity of purpose. "Be clear about why you're using social media and select platforms that align with your goals," she advises. Additionally, she notes that students should be prepared for the interactive nature of social media, which encourages not just broadcasting information but also engaging with followers and being open to conversations.
To follow Shivangi and Melissa’s journey, follow them on Instagram and LinkedIn using the links below:
Shivangi Shah:
Instagram: @phd_with_shivangi
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shivangi-shah-926296145/
Melissa Adamski:
Instagram: @nuttedoutnutrition
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/melissaadamski/
About Monash University
Monash University is Australia’s largest university with more than 80,000 students. In the 60 years since its foundation, it has developed a reputation for world-leading high-impact research, quality teaching, and inspiring innovation.
With four campuses in Australia and a presence in Malaysia, China, India, Indonesia and Italy, it is one of the most internationalised Australian universities.
As a leading international medical research university with the largest medical faculty in Australia and integration with leading Australian teaching hospitals, we consistently rank in the top 50 universities worldwide for clinical, pre-clinical and health sciences.
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