Meet the founder

Dr. Bruna Costa
Health Psychologist | Researcher | Educator

Hi, I’m Bruna. I specialise in the psychosocial dimensions of health and have over a decade professional research experience spanning academia and the charity sector. I’ve worked in a range of areas, including appearance psychology, craniofacial conditions, cardiovascular health, and health inequalities.

I’ve led complex, multi-stakeholder research programmes and helped shape impactful, patient-centred policies, services, and interventions. I’ve collaborated widely, partnering with NHS teams, policy-makers, public health bodies, academic institutions, and charities.

My work bridges disciplines, connecting clinical and medical expertise with strategic and policy-focused goals. By translating complex evidence into practical, strategic action, I help bridge the gap between research and real-world outcomes.

As an experienced educator and speaker, I deliver training, guest lectures, media commentary, and public engagement work that brings research to life. I’m also widely published in academic journals and actively contribute to academic and professional communities including international conferences. 

At the heart of my decision to start HumanSide Health was a simple but important belief: that health (research) should be compassionate, inclusive, and centred on the real experiences of people’s lives. I believe that when we listen deeply and design thoughtfully, we can build health systems that truly serve the people they’re meant for.