Dr. Shauna Burke is an Associate Professor in the School of Health Studies at The University of Western Ontario. Her research focuses on child and adolescent health, with a specific focus on health behaviours, childhood obesity, and group dynamics/social connectedness.

Asset Map Keywords: Obesity, Health Promotion, Physical Activity --> (see more)

Children's Health Collaborators: Michelle Mottola, Trish Tucker, Jason Gilliland, Jennifer Irwin

Shauna’s current program of research includes: (1) the development, implementation, and evaluation of group-based interventions designed to target childhood obesity; and (2) the measurement and promotion of physical activity among preschoolers and Latino children. Additional areas of research include reviews of group-based physical activity interventions and breastfeeding promotion.

Broadly speaking, Professor Burke’s research area is child and adolescent health, with a specific focus on health behaviours, childhood obesity, and group dynamics/social connectedness. In addition to over 100 presentations, workshops, and invited lectures at national and international scientific conferences, Professor Burke has published numerous book chapters and peer-reviewed research articles in the areas of physical activity, group dynamics, and public health. Dr. Burke is also co-author of a widely used Canadian health textbook entitled “Core Concepts in Health”, now in its third edition. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Burke is the Principal Investigator of the “iBelong” program of research, investigating young people’s adherence to public health guidelines, health behaviours, social media use, and perceptions of social connectedness and psychological wellbeing throughout the pandemic. Professor Burke has also received numerous prestigious awards in recognition of her excellence in mentorship and teaching.