I was awarded an MA in Food Business Management (Distinction) and a BSc in Culinary Arts Management (First Class Honours) from University of West London, as well as a PgCert in Higher Education from University of Greenwich. 

I am a transdisciplinary researcher, and my main areas of research are centred around gastronomy, food culture and migration. My research is positioned at the intersection of food, culture, migration, ethnic identity and social cohesion – with particular emphasis on inclusion belonging and adaptation. My research explores the ways in which food serves as a medium for cultural negotiation, identity formation, and social integration – particularly through the lens of migration. I am also passionate about understanding how media, consumer culture and societal expectations shape our food choice, preferences and practices. My research publications investigate contemporary narratives related to culinary traditions, authenticity and ethnic diversity, and the way in which these narratives reflect broader societal and cultural dynamics. I am currently working towards completing my PhD thesis titled "Negotiating Culinary Identities: An Interpretive Grounded Theory of Gastronomic Acculturation of Romanian Immigrants in England". 

My expert knowledge has led me to contribute to various national and international conferences, including paper presentations, panel discussions and keynotes. I am particularly proud to have been invited to act as Guest Editor for a Special Edition of the Women’s Health Journal titled: “Back to the Kitchen Table: Rethinking Women’s Health Through Generational Foodways”. This Special Collection encourages research and narratives that move beyond biomedical silos to incorporate anthropological, historical, sociological, and psychological perspectives on food and health. By spotlighting the wisdom of past generations, we aim to reimagine women’s health not just as a matter of individual discipline or medical intervention, but as a cultural, relational, and deeply nourishing practice.

I am a member of the Council for Hospitality Management (CHME), an associate member of the Institute of Hospitality and a Fellow of AdvanceHE.

I am a Principal Investigator in the project “Improving Access to Nutritious Food for Migrants from Disadvantaged Backgrounds – A Rapid Evidence Assessment” which evaluates the UK migration and food policy environment and proposes actionable solutions for improving food security among forced and voluntary migrants in the UK. I am also a Co-Researcher in the project “Gastronomy, Food Culture and Place Branding: The Role of Culinary Heritage in Creative Place Making” which examines the role of local gastronomy and food culture in empowering local communities while preserving traditions, and creating resilient, sustainable, and socially inclusive destinations.