Morgan Waston

Research Interests

• Mental health
• Sexual and reproductive health and rights
• Public policy

Biography  

Morgan Watson holds a Master of Philosophy in Behavioural Medicine from the University of Cape Town (2025). Her research explores the psychological and structural factors that shape health behaviour among young people in South Africa. Her master’s thesis investigated predictors of willingness to receive a prospective HIV vaccine, contributing to the growing evidence base on vaccine hesitancy and decision-making in high-burden settings. She currently serves as a Research Assistant at the Centre for Social Science Research, where she works on projects and policy related to adolescent health, HIV, resilience, and mental wellbeing.

Morgan is particularly passionate about improving the mental and physical health of women and young people facing intersecting vulnerabilities. She believes that rigorous, context-sensitive research can play a critical role in advancing equitable health systems and ensuring that all young people have the opportunity to thrive.