I am Dr Heather Way (PhD), a dedicated researcher and practitioner passionate about the transformative power of personalised genomics. With a PhD in Molecular Pathology, Bachelor of Applied Science,  Diploma in Nutrition, and certifications in Nutrigenomics. I have spent over 25 years as a scientist with CSIRO before transitioning into clinical practice. Please note that while I hold a PhD, I am not a medical doctor—I am a researcher specialising in Autism genomics.

My journey is both professional and deeply personal. As a mother of two sons who have successfully recovered from Autism using our TACGA strategies, I bring a unique perspective shaped by first-hand experience. Our family has navigated a complex landscape of health challenges, including extreme food intolerances, non-verbal Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, anxiety, depression, eczema, fussy eating, sensory sensitivities, and gastrointestinal conditions such as IBS, reflux, diarrhoea, constipation, and leaky gut. These lived experiences allow me to offer realistic, family-friendly strategies that are both practical and effective for children with ASD.

The missing piece in my children’s recovery came through targeting gene expression using Nutrigenomics and Microbiome sequencing—a breakthrough that unites my three greatest passions: Molecular Genetics, Nutrition, and Autism Research. Together, these fields form the foundation of Nutrigenomics, an exciting and evolving discipline that tailors nutrition to an individual’s genetic profile.

As an educator and global speaker, I train paediatricians and healthcare professionals on the application of genomics in clinical practice at leading conferences, including MAPS (USA & Australia), MINDD, Bio-Balance, ASLM, and A5M. I also serve on the scientific advisory boards of several prestigious organisations, including Victus Health, Julie Matthews (Nourishing Hope, USA), Fitgenes, smartDNA, and IntellxxDNA (USA). Additionally, I lead research initiatives for world-renowned genetics and microbiome companies, contributing to the development of specialist nutrigenomic and microbiome sequencing tests for neurodevelopmental disorders, including Autism.

To bring this expertise to families worldwide, I founded TACGA, with the vision of establishing an Autism Genomics Centre for Excellence. Through TACGA, our team of expert online nutrigenomic practitioners provides cutting-edge, science-backed strategies via telehealth, helping families across the globe optimise their children’s health and well-being.