Dr Olivia Wills
- Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours)(Dean'sSchol), University of Wollongong 2021
- Doctorate of Philosophy, University of Wollongong 2025
Dr Olivia Wills is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Senior Research Associate at the University of New South Wales, with additional appointments at the University of Wollongong. Her research focuses on modifiable lifestyle behaviours and brain health in multiple sclerosis, using mixed methods to translate research evidence into practical, person‑centred care. She completed her PhD in 2024 on advancing lifestyle‑related brain health‑focused care for MS. Dr Wills has led multiple peer‑reviewed publications and contributes to national and international MS guideline development, policy initiatives, and clinical education. She is an active member of several MS‑focused research and professional working groups and regularly engages clinicians, people with lived experience, and the wider community through education and advocacy.
- Publications
- Media
- Grants
- Awards
- Research Activities
- Engagement
- Teaching and Supervision
Dr Wills has been awarded competitive research funding in recognition of the quality, impact, and translational potential of her work in multiple sclerosis and brain health. Her funded research prioritises consumer engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of practical tools to support evidence‑based care.
- Incubator Grant (2026), MS Australia
- Australian Early Career Grant (2026), UOW
- Small Equipment Grant (2025), Health Innovations, UOW
- Consumer Engagement Grant (2024), Health Innovations, UOW
- Higher Degree Research Student Travel Grant (2024), UOW
- Postgraduate Research Scholarship (2022–2024), MS Australia
- Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship (2021–2022), University of Wollongong
Dr Wills has received multiple awards recognising academic excellence, research impact, leadership, and contributions to clinical nutrition and multiple sclerosis research.
Selected Awards and Honours
- Australian Early Career Startup Grant (2026), University of Wollongong
- National Carpe Diem Award (2023), Dietitian’s Connection
- Health Impact Research Cluster Publication Prize (2022, 2023, 2024), University of Wollongong
Awarded for excellence in research publication for the systematic review and meta‑analysis on lifestyle self‑management and quality of life in multiple sclerosis - Dean’s Merit Award (2022), School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong
Awarded for ranking in the top 5% of students - ECTRIMS Winter School Travel Grant (2022)
Awarded for participation in international advanced training on MRI in the diagnosis, management, and research of multiple sclerosis (Barcelona, Spain)