Dr Darren Morton

Professor Darren Morton is a globally recognised expert in Human Physiology, Lifestyle Medicine, and Positive Psychology, driven by a desire to inspire and equip individuals to live their best life.

Originally trained in education, Darren’s passion for optimising human functioning led him to complete a Masters and PhD in Human Physiology. His early research focused on the ‘runner’s stitch,’ of which he is considered the world’s leading expert. Over the past two decades, his work has centred on evidence-based strategies from Lifestyle Medicine, Positive Psychology, and Neuroscience to enhance mental health, wellbeing, and resilience.

Darren is the author of three books—Seven Secrets for Feeling Fantastic, Live More Active, and Live More Happy—and has published over 70 peer-reviewed scientific and medical papers. He has collaborated with leading researchers and health practitioners across multiple universities and institutions worldwide.

Professionally, Darren splits his time between academia and enterprise. He is Professor and Director of the Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre at Avondale University, where he supervises PhD students, serves on the editorial board of the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, and teaches both postgraduate and undergraduate courses. Concurrently, he is the Founder of The Lift Project, a profit-for-purpose initiative with the mission to “lift 10 million lives” by improving mental health and wellbeing through evidence-based strategies and memorable frameworks.

Darren is recognised internationally as a leader in Lifestyle Medicine. He was one of four people worldwide selected to write the International Certification in Lifestyle Medicine exam, is a Certified Diplomate of the International Board of Lifestyle Medicine, and a Fellow of the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine, receiving their inaugural “Change Maker” award in 2020. His work has influenced other major health initiatives, including the widely adopted Comprehensive Health Improvement Project (CHIP).

Darren has presented to hundreds of corporate, educational, and community audiences globally and is a sought-after speaker at international academic conferences. He has also been awarded a Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning in the Australian university sector.

Outside of his professional commitments, Darren is an avid adventurer who enjoys hang gliding, kitesurfing, running, kayaking, mountain biking, swimming, and camping, and cherishes time spent with family and friends.