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. 

    • Chartered Health Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. Specialist member of the Division of Health Psychology

    • Registered member of the Health and Care Professions Council

    • British Heart Foundation – Qualitative Insights Lead 

    • Centre for Appearance Research – Research Fellow 

    • University of the West of England, School of Social Sciences – Associate Lecturer 

    • Published author, podcast co-host, media contributor, peer reviewer for international academic journals and conferences

  • I have authored over 25 publications in various academic journals, accessible through my ResearchGate profile.

  • “Bruna’s work has been invaluable to our charity and the families we serve. She brings a rare blend of academic rigour, empathy, and genuine commitment to making a positive difference. She approaches her work with professionalism, clarity, and a collaborative spirit. Her ability to engage sensitively with our community builds trust and ensures participants feel safe and heard. Her research is methodologically robust, accessible, and practical - helping shape our support services and advocacy with lasting impact. I would not hesitate to recommend her to any organisation seeking a thoughtful, skilled, and dedicated research professional.”

    Karen Wilkinson-Bell
    Director, Headlines Craniofacial Support

  • “Working with Bruna has been an outstanding experience. She brings a rare combination of analytical expertise, empathy, and practical problem-solving to every project. Bruna takes the time to listen, understand the underlying challenge, and develop solutions that are both meaningful and effective. Her ability to engage a diverse range of stakeholders and translate complex findings into clear, actionable insights is exceptional. The quality of Bruna's work is consistently excellent, and she is always willing to go the extra mile, providing support and guidance throughout the process. I would highly recommend Bruna to any organisation looking for a thoughtful, skilled, and impactful researcher.”

    Rony Arafin
    Director of Health Insights, British Heart Foundation

  • “Dr. Bruna Costa is an efficient, dedicated professional who consistently delivers high-quality work. She not only meets deadlines but also ensures her work is person-centred and tailored to the needs of the individuals or groups it is intended to benefit. It has been a pleasure collaborating with Bruna on health-related projects.”

    Dr. Jade Parnell
    Lecturer at Royal College of Surgeons (Ireland)