Dr Levi Wade is a behavioural scientist and postdoctoral researcher at the University of Newcastle. His research focuses on how sport, physical activity, and movement-based programs can support children’s and adolescents’ mental health, social development, cognitive functioning, and educational outcomes.

Dr Wade has played a central role in the development and evaluation of several large-scale programs designed to improve students’ leadership skills, motor competence, executive functioning, and emotional wellbeing. Much of his research examines the mechanisms by which physical activity can enhance mental health and cognitive outcomes—such as through improved self-regulation, social connection, and cognitive control—and how these benefits can be realised in real-world school and community settings. He has expertise in randomised controlled trials, mediation analyses, and multi-level modelling, and has worked closely with multidisciplinary teams including educators, health promotion officers, and policy-makers.

Dr Wade is passionate about translating research into practical, scalable, and equitable programs. His current and emerging work explores how sport, exercise, and leadership can be used to promote wellbeing, respectful relationships, social connection, and positive youth development.