What is your professional background?
My clinical background is in Nutrition and Dietetics. I earned my PhD in Dietetics, Nutrition and Biological Sciences from the Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK). After my PhD, I acquired my Registered Dietitian credentials in Scotland, served as a Clinical Dietitian in Mental Health and Learning Disabilities, and held several post-doctoral research positions in UK institutions, including University College London. I have acquired extensive experience in managing public health projects (working with the Scottish Government), conducting nutrition research, and contributing to the scientific community in Scotland through numerous publications, presentations, and active membership with clinical research interest groups, including the Mental Health Group and the British Dietetic Association. After 20 years of my work career in the UK, I moved to the US to gain another global experience in clinical nutrition research and embrace new opportunities.
In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
In 2023, I joined the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids. My PI and Lead Mentor is Jessica A. Alvarez, PhD, RD, and my co-mentor is Thomas R. Ziegler, MD.
Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
The primary aim of my research is to investigate the role of diet/nutrition and body composition in chronic metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cystic fibrosis through observational, longitudinal, and randomized controlled clinical nutrition trials. My work encompasses various aspects of nutrition science, including the assessment of body fat composition, fat distribution, bone density, and lean and fat muscle mass. I also focus on evaluating glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in individuals with cystic fibrosis who may also have diabetes. Additionally, my research involves assessing nutritional status, analyzing dietary intake, evaluating physical activity levels, identifying nutritional biomarkers that may serve as indicators of disease progression, and studying the effects of specific dietary interventions on both clinical and nutritional health outcomes.
What do you like most about Emory?
I have found Emory exhibiting an open and welcoming culture. I like the teams and people that I work with at Emory. People have been very welcoming, supportive, and helpful with someone migrating from the UK. The support from my mentors has been invaluable in helping me settle in the US and at Emory.
What is your favorite movie or TV show?
Christopher Nolan’s Batman Trilogy
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to go for walks, travel, read books, cook, and spend time with my husband and son doing fun/family activities.
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