Dr Levi Wade is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Newcastle, with expertise in behavioural science and a research focus that spans education, mental health, and physical activity. His work explores how school-based interventions can support young people’s psychological wellbeing, cognitive functioning, and physical development.

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. His current projects include the evaluation of a school-based leadership and movement program for primary school students, as well as a respectful relationships education initiative delivered through sport.

Dr Wade’s research has been published in leading journals such as Psychological Bulletin, Psychology of Sport and Exercise, and Sports Medicine. He is committed to translating research into practical outcomes, and regularly collaborates with schools, departments of education, and health organisations to ensure evidence-based practice reaches those who need it most.