Samiha Azgar, BS
Program: PhD, Human Nutrition
Sa868@cornell.edu
Advisor: Marla Lujan
Entered: Fall 2022

Samiha Azgar is a 3rd year PhD student in the Lujan Lab. She earned her BS in Psychology with a minor in Biochemistry from Hofstra University. A former science teacher, Samiha worked to empower young women from underserved communities through research, science communication, and reproductive health education. Samiha’s research focuses on examining the metabolic changes and variations in ovarian morphology that occur during adolescent reproductive transition and the emergence of PCOS. 

Mariana Bolinaga Sanz, BS
Program: MS, Individualized concentration
mbs2862@cornell.edu
Advisor: Kimberly O'Brien
Entered: Fall 2024

I am originally from Venezuela, but I have lived in the Dominican Republic, Florida, and Argentina. I completed my undergraduate studies at Boston University, obtaining a Bachelor's of Science in Nutrition on the Dietetics Track. I am now pursuing a Master's of Science in Nutritional Sciences on an Individualized track. I will be working at the O'Brien lab, where I am very interested in continuing research on the microbiome and how our diets can affect the absorption of certain nutrients. In the future I see myself working in the food or supplement industry. Outside of that, I enjoy crocheting, taking walks, and being with family and friends.

Beatriz Carmona, BS
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition
bac237@cornell.edu
Advisor: Dr. Laura Bellows
Entered: Fall 2021

Beatriz graduated with a BS in Nutrition/Dietetics and a minor in Statistics from Auburn University in the Spring of 2021. She joined the PhD program at Cornell that fall and has been working with Dr. Laura Bellows since then on a breadth of projects that evaluate the quality of the home food environment and examine the self-care behaviors of caregivers, all with an overarching aim to improve diet quality within, and across, the family unit. Her observance of health disparities while living in Mexico and rural Alabama has shaped her interests in improving food security and diet-related health behaviors within the larger context of comprehensive health equity for underserved populations.

Luisa Fernanda Castillo, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
lfc56@cornell.edu
Advisor: Martha Field
Entered: Fall 2019

Luisa is a PhD student in Molecular Nutrition who seeks to improve people's health and quality of life through nutrition. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Anthropology at The University of Texas at El Paso and was an NIH-BUILDing scholars’ fellow. For her undergraduate research, Luisa focused on cancer biology, specifically the downstream effects of single nucleotide polymorphism in guiding the progression of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Currently, Luisa seeks to understand gene-nutrient interactions and mitochondrial function, specifically on the contributions of folate and enzyme expression on the de novo synthesis of thymidylate on mitochondrial health and disease. In her free time she loves to be involved in charity work, spending time with her friends and family, reading, and working out.

Francoise Cattaneo
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
fc362@cornell.edu
Advisor: John Hoddinott
Entered: Fall 2023

Françoise is a first year Ph.D. student in International Nutrition. She earned her Master’s at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) in Nutritional Epidemiology and Public Health (The Netherlands, Kenya) with her BSC in Biomedical Sciences and International Public Health from Boston University (USA, Switzerland). Her former research focused on validating the Global Diet Quality Questionnaire (DQQ) tool for women in pastoralist settings. Françoise has worked with multiple groups (SMEs, policymakers, farmers, NGO) through her work at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and the Alliance of Bioversity-CIAT on the Innovation for Health and Planet team and at PA Europe Brussels, building the One-Health Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) platform. Now at Cornell, her research aims to focus on the socio-cultural and environmental influences of adolescent food choices in rural and urban Bangladesh.

Elizabeth Centeno-Tablante, MS
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
ect53@cornell.edu
Advisor: Saurabh Mehta
Entered: Fall 2019

Elizabeth is a 5th year PhD. Candidate Dr. Saurabh Mehta at the Division of Nutritional Sciences. She completed a Biology college degree at the University of Carabobo in Venezuela. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Trials from University of Seville, Spain and a Master’s in Biomedicine from University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain. Prior to joining the Mehta Research Group Elizabeth was working as full-time consultant for the World Health Organization conducting evidence assessment and systematic reviews for informing global guidelines related to nutrition policies, HIV/AIDS and child health. Elizabeth is currently developing research projects in Ecuador focusing on maternal and child health and the intersection between nutrition, inflammation, and infectious diseases. Additionally, Elizabeth is conducting systematic reviews to assess the potential transmission of infectious diseases through breastfeeding and contribute to the development of evidence-based public health guidelines.

Nathalie Celestin, MPH, CHES  
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition 
nic24@cornell.edu 
Advisor:  TBD
Entered: Fall 2024  

Nathalie Celestin, MPH, CHES is a PhD student in Community Nutrition. She is a champion of people-centered approaches that promote food and nutrition security. Nathalie has worked with multidisciplinary, cross-sector collaborators to ensure that families have the skills and resources to adopt and sustain a balanced lifestyle that meets their needs. Nathalie earned a bachelor’s degree in both dietetics and consumer foods and a master's in public health from the University of Georgia. She also holds an associate degree in culinary arts. In her free time, you can find Nathalie at a local coffeeshop, traveling, or creating culinary experiences with family and friends.

Rachel Cheang, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition 
rc645@cornell.edu
Advisor: Shu-Bing Qian
Entered: Fall 2021

Rachel Cheang was born and raised in Macau, China. Her love for biological sciences led her to the United States, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Molecular Cell Biology and a minor in Nutritional Sciences from University of California, Berkeley. Post-graduation, she worked at the Diabetes Center at University of California, San Francisco as a lab technician where she investigated the impact of neonatal microglia on adult murine glucose homeostasis in the context of maternal high fat diet, intensifying her interest in immunometabolism. She is now a first-year molecular nutrition PhD student at the Division of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University. Rachel’s research interest includes looking at the intersection between health and disease in the context of nutrition and metabolism.  

Tong Chen, BS
Program: PhD, molecular nutrition
tc659@cornell.edu
Advisor: Nate Vacanti
Entered: Fall 2020

Tong is a 5th year PhD candidate in molecular nutrition working with Dr. Nathaniel Vacanti. She earned her B.S. from Cornell University with a major in animal science and minor in food science. She is investigating the molecular links between Alzheimer's disease and insulin resistance using proteomics, metabolomics, and bioinformatics approach. Outside of academics, Tong enjoys playing tennis and cooking.

Nicholas Cheng, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular
Nwc34@cornell.edu
Advisor: Meng Wang
Entered: Fall 2023

I am a second year student utilizing mass spectrometry and other molecular biology techniques to understand how nutrition impacts the metabolism of formaldehyde, an endogenously produced carcinogen, and its mechanisms of toxicity particularly in the mitochondria. 

Janine Comrie, BA
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
jmc749@cornell.edu
Advisor:  Elizabeth Johnson
Entered: Summer 2020

Janine Comrie is a fifth-year PhD student in DNS with a concentration in Molecular Nutrition. She grew up in South Florida, where her Jamaican family’s food culture greatly inspired her interest in food and nutrition. Janine is conducting her dissertation research in the lab of Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, where she studies the metabolism of dietary nutrients by gut microbes. Janine is interested in broadening her focus to engage in the translation of nutritional science to real-world settings, so she is also working on becoming a Registered Dietitian. In her free time, Janine enjoys hiking, cooking and chatting with vendors at the Ithaca Farmers Market.

Sharat Devulapalli
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
Dsd97@cornell.edu
Advisor: Saurabh Mehta
Entered: Fall 2023

Sharat Dhruthi Devulapalli is a doctoral student dedicated to improving the health outcomes of mothers and children. She graduated as an academic topper in Nutrition from Symbiosis International University, India. In the past, she has worked with Tata Trusts and Clinton Health Access Initiative and led capacity building, demand generation, data-backed decision-making, supportive supervision, and millet-based interventions to improve the health outcomes of ~21 million individuals. Her areas of interest include Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A), micronutrient deficiencies particularly anemia, and evidence-based policies in nutrition. As a Quad Fellow’23 she aims to research sustainable and cost-effective strategies to reduce the global burden of anemia, and micronutrient deficiencies and improve the RMNCH+A outcomes. Currently, she is researching nutrition-specific strategies to combat the global burden of anemia and micronutrient deficiencies.

Jingjie Du, MS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition 
jd2267@cornell.edu
Advisor: Xin-Gen Lei
Entered: Spring 2023

Jingjie graduated from Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University in China with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biotechnology and earned a Master of Science degree in Microbiology from Ohio State University. At Ohio State, she studied the impact of spinal cord injury on the gut microbiome and virome. She is currently working in Dr. Lei’s lab, where she focuses on screening novel proteins for use in animal feed and environmental protection using computational and molecular biology methods and is also involved in several microbiome projects.

Kaydine Edwards, BS
Program: PhD, Human Nutrition
kae86@cornell.edu
Advisor: Joeva Barrow
Entered: Fall 2020

Kaydine is a 2nd year PhD student In Dr. Joeva Barrow's lab. She earned her bachelor's degree in Health and Nutrition Science. She is interested in pursuing her Registered Dietitian Credentials post PhD in an effort to bridge the gap between clinical concerns and research, with the ultimate goal of influencing health policy. Her dissertation project is focused on Mitochondrial Diseases. Outside of science, she enjoys hiking, gardening, skateboarding and taking naps!

Megan Eno, BA
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
Email: mee54@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Megan grew up in the Pacific Northwest before moving to Ithaca to earn her B.A. in microbiology from Cornell University with a minor in infectious disease biology. 
After graduation, she worked as a research technician at Cornell, investigating diet-microbiome interactions. She is interested in leveraging computational and biochemical tools to study nutrient-microbe interactions that influence human health. In her free time, she enjoys running, climbing, and practicing her latte art.

Nandeep Erat Ramesh, MBBS
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
ne244@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Nandeep is a first year PhD student in International Nutrition. Prior to joining Cornell, he was working as a medical scientist at the National Institute of Nutrition under Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR-NIN), Hyderabad. He did his bachelors in medicine and surgery (MBBS) from JIPMER-Puducherry, India. His areas of work include anthropometric failure, non-communicable diseases, and space nutrition. Nandeep loves to read non-fiction and is a fan of soccer. A native of Kerala-India, Nandeep speaks Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, and English.

Shah Mohammad Fahim, MBBS, MPH
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
sf543@cornell.edu
Advisor: Saurabh Mehta
Entered: Fall 2022

Shah Mohammad Fahim is a Ph.D. student in the Mehta Research Group. He is a physician and earned his MBBS from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. He later earned his M.P.H. in Epidemiology with Summa-Cum-Laude distinction from the American International University, Bangladesh. Before joining the Mehta Research Group, he was working for the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) conducting research on maternal and child nutrition. Fahim is passionate about understanding the complex biological interplay between nutrition, inflammation, and gut microbial dysbiosis in children and women of reproductive age. He is keen to explore and validate non-invasive biomarkers for nutrition and inflammation assessment and investigate the effectiveness of personalized nutrition interventions for the management of nutritional impairments.

Xiaotong (Lindsey) Fei, BS
Program: MS, Individualized
Xf242@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Xiaotong is a first-year master's student in Dr. Kimberly O’Brien’s lab. She obtained her bachelor's degree at University of California, Davis and studied clinical nutrition as an undergraduate. Her research interests lie in human nutrition, particularly in how gut microbiome influence people's health and how precision nutrition can meet each person's needs individually. Outside of academia, she enjoys weightlifting and interior decorating. She likes her home to be designed as a cozy and comfortable place where all of her friends and family want to stay!

Gwyneth (Gwyn) Frederick, MPH
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition
gf259@cornell.edu
Advisor: Roger Figueroa 
Entered: Fall 2022

Gwyn (she/her) is a third-year Ph.D. student in Community Nutrition. She comes to Ithaca with a background in farm work, a B.S. in public health nutrition from Ohio State University, a Master of Public Health from University at Albany, and several years of experience as a program evaluator for NYS SNAP-Ed. At Cornell, Gwyn’s research focuses on how food procurement structures, policies, and public funding might be leveraged to address health, dignity, and economic equity for both minority producers and consumers. She aims to evaluate state and federal food procurement policies through story-telling research that focuses on those responsible for and directly impacted by publicly funded food distribution. In her free time, Gwyn enjoys travelling and adventuring outdoors with her partner, thrifting, and creating linoleum-cut prints for friends and family.

Jacqueline A. Futch, MPH
Program: PhD, Community
jf872@cornell.edu
Advisor: Tashara Leak
Entered: Fall 2023

Jacqueline Futch is originally from Miami, Florida but a proud global citizen who chases postcard views and loves art, sports, interior design, exploring the world, and of course food. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics and Sociology from The Florida State University and a Master of Public Health in Nutrition from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, where she also completed her Dietetic Internship. Before coming to Cornell, Jacqueline was a leader in the anti-hunger system, gaining experience in directing statewide nutrition programs.  She is interested in better understanding and addressing barriers and facilitators to eating behaviors; improve access to healthy foods; and reduce food insecurity among vulnerable and historically marginalized population.

Samik Ghosh, BA, MA
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
Email: sg2542@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Samik Ghosh, a Portfolio Lead for Program Management, Monitoring & Evaluation, and scaling up sustainable development programs in Asia and Africa, is known for his entrepreneurial spirit and research mindset. His diverse experience and long-term goal involve facilitating the agile convergence of Research & Development in Public Health, Nutrition, and Agriculture by leveraging technological innovation. Immensely committed to improving the lives of women and children, he brings an entrepreneurial spirit, analytical mindset, and process-driven approach to his work. His passion is exploring the intersection of health determinants at individual, societal, and environmental levels. With a Master of Arts in Social Work and Community Health from Banaras Hindu University and a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Burdwan in India, he possesses interdisciplinary knowledge critical to his work in international development. He is committed to leveraging scientific innovation in public health and nutrition interventions, particularly in understanding how the environment, culture, and food intake impact human development and how nutrition can safeguard the lives of millions of children and mothers globally. He believes trust, collaboration, and integrity are fundamental to achieving these goals.

With extensive experience in the social development sector across Asia and Africa, Samik Ghosh has a proven track record in designing, implementing, and gathering evidence using innovative monitoring, evaluation, and research strategies. He has worked with various international organisations, including Rainforest Alliance, Children's Investment Fund Foundation, Azim Premji Foundation, IFPRI, OXFAM India, and AED, and his work has been published in reputable academic journals and showcased at conferences.  

He is thrilled at the prospect of pursuing a graduate program in Nutrition Sciences with a concentration in International Nutrition at Cornell University. This opportunity will provide him with advanced skills and valuable insights critical for conducting pioneering research in nutritional sciences, public health, and life sciences. He is focused on leveraging cutting-edge precision nutrition, digital health, and biological innovations to impact the lives of mothers and children significantly. Samik enjoys reading biographies and short stories, listening to classical music, and watching documentaries. In his free time, he loves to spend time with family and go on vacation. 

Abby Glick, BS
Program: MS, Individualized
Email: aag268@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Abby is a first-year MS student from Washington, Illinois. She earned her BS from Iowa State University in Dietetics, where her undergraduate research focused on the effects of pulses on blood glucose and consumer perceptions of nutrient-dense foods. Currently, her research interests include the gut microbiome, gut disorders, nutrigenomics, and eating disorders. In her free time, she loves running, biking, and spending time with her cat, Wallace.

Cristina Güitrón Leal, MS
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
ceg248@cornell.edu
Advisor: Julia Finkelstein
Entered: Summer 2019

Cristina studied human nutrition in Mexico City and, after a 1-year internship at Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, she chose Cornell for her graduate studies. She completed her Master's at Cornell in May 2019 and is thrilled to be part of the Finkelstein lab for her doctorate studies, where she focuses on maternal and child nutrition. Outside of academics, Cristina enjoys crochet, reading, and singing.

Kalem Hanlon, BS
Program: MS, Individualized
Email: kh832@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Kalem is a first-year Master’s student from Calgary, Canada. He obtained his BScH in Life Sciences with a specialization in biomedical sciences from Queen’s University. His main research interests include how lifestyle and genetic factors impact the microbiome and how this impact relates to human health and chronic disease. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outdoors and competing in long-distance triathlon and trail racing

Bowen Hao, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
bh553@cornell.edu
Advisor: Shu-Bing Qian
Entered: Fall 2022

I am a Ph.D. student in Dr. Qian's lab, originally from China. I earned my B.S. in Nutrition Sciences from the University of California, Berkeley, where I worked as an undergraduate assistant in Dr. Hei Sook Sul’s lab. My research in the Qian Lab focuses on how tRNA depletion affects ribosome behavior, influencing protein synthesis and triggering cellular stress pathways. Outside of research, I enjoy playing badminton and hanging out with friends.

Sarah Hess, AAS, BS, MS
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition
Email: sah367@cornell.edu
Advisor: Angela Odoms-Young
Entered: Fall 2024

Sarah Hess is an Extension Associate for the Food and Nutrition Education in Communities (FNEC) group and the Regional Coordinator for the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) at Cornell University. Sarah provides leadership and support to EFNEP staff, facilitates eCornell Navigating for Success training, and specializes in curricula and social media efforts. Sarah’s prior experience includes leading policy, system, and environmental efforts in school wellness and providing direct education through SNAP-Ed. She is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and holds a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from Mansfield University. Sarah is eager to pursue a Ph.D. in Nutrition to better understand and support behavior changes that align with a healthy lifestyle in low socioeconomic populations. Based on her experiences and coursework at Cornell University, she is interested in studying food-related trauma informed practices. Sarah is excited about the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. in Nutrition from Cornell University

Nayeon Jeon, BA
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
nj287@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Nayeon is a first-year graduate student in Molecular Nutrition. She completed her undergraduate studies at Case Western Reserve University, where she majored in Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism. Under the mentorship of Dr. Danny Manor, she conducted benchwork research exploring the antioxidant-independent role of Vitamin E using a dual luciferase reporter assay. Outside of the lab, Nayeon enjoys golfing, bouldering, and cooking.

Naiwen Ji, BS                                                                            
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
nj294@cornell.edu
Advisor: Saurabh Mehta
Entered: Fall 2021

Naiwen was born and raised in Xi’an, China. She has a B.S. in Nutritional Sciences from the Pennsylvania State University and Graduation with Distinction: Cum Laude.  Naiwen was given research opportunities when she was an undergrad, where she developed her research interest in vulnerable populations and chronic diseases.  Before joining the Mehta Research Group, Naiwen was appointed as a research staff of the Center for Experimental Economics in Education at Shaanxi Normal University working on developing randomized controlled trials related to micronutrient supplementation on children’s development and virtual medical training for village doctors on healthcare quality.  Naiwen is passionate about understanding the dimension of diet-related factors and malnutrition in children, adolescents and women of reproductive age. During her free time, she loves singing, watching movies and baking Chinese pastries.

Yifan Jia, BS
Program: MS, Dietetics
Email: yj544@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Yifan, originally from Beijing, China, graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with dual degrees in Nutrition & Dietetics and Global Health, along with a certificate in Entrepreneurship. She is now a first-year MS nutrition student with a focus on the Dietetics track. Yifan's research interests include women's reproductive health, as well as the intricate connections between nutrients, the human gut microbiome, and metabolic diseases. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, singing Karaoke, and practicing Chinese calligraphy. 

Joy Kim, BS
Program: PhD, Human Nutrition
Email: jyk47@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Joy is a registered dietitian and first year PhD student in Human Nutrition. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University, where she was a research assistant in the Lujan Lab. After graduating, she completed her dietetic internship at the NIH Clinical Center, concentrating in clinical nutrition research. Since then, Joy has worked in clinical research settings at the UC Irvine Center for Clinical Research, as well as the Vanden Brink Lab at Texas A&M University, where she studied adolescent reproductive health and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Her primary interests lie in the intersections between metabolic and reproductive health in women, and the role nutrition plays in these interactions. Outside of academics, Joy enjoys lifting weights, going to concerts, and reading.

Elisabeth "Lisa" Anne Larson, Msc.
Program: PhD - human/molecular
eal254@cornell.edu
Advisor: Dr. Barbara Strupp
Entered: Fall 2022

Lisa is a former professional ballet dancer who earned her Bsc. in Clinical Nutrition from New York University, summa cum laude. While there, she engaged in the research and public health communities of New York City-- she spent time working in an eating disorder research unit at Columbia University, as well as working on nutrition education initiatives for formerly homeless new yorkers living with HIV. Subsequently, she worked on a breast cancer clinical trials team at Columbia University before earning her Msc. in Human Nutrition from Københavns Universitet in Denmark where her work focused on interventional prenatal diets. She is currently a NIH T32 trainee in maternal and child nutrition, studying the role of maternal choline supplementation on offspring development and the maternal immune system. She hopes to improve maternal health and child outcomes, particularly in low-income populations. When she is not in her office or in the lab, Lisa enjoys running, cooking, and spending time with her husband, her dog, and her cat.

Derek Lee, B.S. 
Program: PHD, Molecular
dl745@cornell.edu
Advisor: Daniel Berry
Entered: Summer 2023

Derek obtained his B.S. in Human Biology, Health and Society at Cornell University and is from Long Island, NY. He is currently a Master's student, focusing on molecular nutrition within the Berry Lab, and studying biochemical mechanisms and stem cell regulation within adipose tissue. Outside his research, he enjoys running/exercising, playing and listening to music, and watching movies. 

Min Ruei (Arielle) Lee, BS
Program: MS, Individualized
lm947@cornell.edu
Advisor: Kimberly O'Brien
Entered: Fall 2024

Minruei is a first-year Master's student in Dr. Kimberly O’Brien’s lab. She obtained her bachelor's degree at Taipei Medical University and has acquired her registered dietitian credential in Taiwan. Her research interests lie in precision nutrition, particularly in the areas of nutrigenetics and the gut microbiome. Outside of academia, she enjoys jogging, swimming, photography, and hanging out with friends.

Jenna Li, B.S., M.A., MLS(ASCP)CM 
Program: MS, Individualized Track
Email: jl4489@cornell.edu 
Advisor: Julia Finklestein
Entered: Fall 2024

I graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Laboratory Science and a Master of Arts degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science. My MA capstone project focused on using non-invasive biomarkers to evaluate the risk of Type 2 diabetes in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. After graduation, I became an ASCP board-certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) and gained several years of experience in the food and dietary supplement industry, where I developed strong management skills and cultivated a deep interest in nutritional science.

Zhuoheng Li, MS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
zl292@cornell.edu
Advisor: Nathaniel Vacanti
Entered: Fall 2021

Zhuoheng is a PhD candidate in Molecular Nutrition. He holds a BS in Food Science from UC Davis and an MS in Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition from Tufts University. His research centers on the integration of multi-omics data. Outside of work, he enjoys road trips, hiking, and visiting breweries.

Hongrui (Henry) Liang, B.E.
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
hl994@cornell.edu
Advisor: Shu-Bing Qian
Entered: Fall 2022 

Hongrui (Henry) Liang, Homo Sapiens, is a third-year Ph.D. student in molecular nutrition at Qian Laboratory. He earned his BE in Food Bio-engineering from China Agricultural University. His research focuses on translation-associated stress of amino acid-rich proteins in human cells. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games, walking his cats, exercising, and spending time with family.

Ashley (Xinyi) Liu, MS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
xl835@cornell.edu
Advisor: Prof. Shu-Bing Qian
Entered: Fall 2022

Ashley is a PhD student in Molecular Nutrition. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry & Pharmacology from China Pharmaceutical University, and then completed her master’s degree in Cancer biology at University College London. She is currently working at Dr. Shu-Bing Qian’s lab, focusing on mRNA translation regulation, nutrient signaling pathway, and cellular stress responses.

Ru Liu, MS, RDN
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition
rl587@cornell.edu
Advisor: Roger Figueroa 
Entered: Fall 2021

Ru is a 4th-year PhD candidate and a Registered Dietitian in Community Nutrition. She obtained her BS in Dietetics and MS in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her dissertation research focuses on the effectiveness and implementation of nutrition interventions in the food pantry setting. Ru utilizes both quantitative and qualitative methods in her work, collaborating with urban food pantries to evaluate community-supported agriculture and produce prescription programs. Her long-term goal is to design, implement, and evaluate community-based health interventions for populations with low income and who are racially or ethnically minoritized. Ru enjoys running, hiking, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends.

Saori Mikami, BS, MS
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition
Email: sm2886@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Saori was born and raised in Hokkaido, Japan. She is a first-year PhD student in Community Nutrition, working alongside Dr. Laura Bellows. She studies International Agricultural Development for her B.S. from Tokyo University of Agriculture and earned her M.S. in Nutrition Interventions, Communication, and Behavior Change from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University. With her background in dietary assessments and nutrition education, she aims to focus her research on child nutrition. Outside of academics, Saori enjoys cooking, home vegetable gardening, surfing, and spending teatime with family and friends.

Blake Mitchell, AS, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
sbm228@cornell.edu
Advisor: Tolunay Beker Aydemir
Entered: Fall 2020

Blake is a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate in molecular nutrition from Waco, Texas.  He graduated from Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences.  His research focuses on the role of transporter-mediated zinc homeostasis in the development of chronic gastrointestinal disease.

Shariwa Oke, MS
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition
sao52@cornell.edu
Advisor: Laura Bellows
Entered: Fall 2021

Shariwa was raised in Phoenix, AZ and received her undergraduate degrees in Physiology and Nutrition from the University of Arizona. Passionate about communicating science visually, she pursued her MS in Biomedical Visualization from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She then had joint appointments in the Organismal Biology & Anatomy and Public Health departments at the University of Chicago as a Research Specialist, where she created 3D visualizations of fossils and worked on tobacco cessation curriculum development. Shariwa’s current work focuses on the design, development, and implementation of digital interventions, incorporating skills such as app design, curriculum development, and social marketing strategies.

Ximena Palma Molina, MS
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
xep2@cornell.edu
Advisor: Julia Finkelstein
Entered: Fall 2020

Ximena is a Doctoral student from Chile, where she did her undergraduate studies in Nutrition and Dietetics from Universidad de Valparaiso and earned her Master´s degree in Biological Sciences from Universidad de Chile. At Cornell, she is part of the Finkelstein Research Group, where she is focusing her research in maternal and child nutrition, particularly how maternal micronutrient deficiencies can impact growth and development in the offspring. During the summer, she was also part of the WHO/Cochrane/Cornell Summer Institute for Systematic Reviews in Nutrition for Global Policy Making, where she received training on how to conduct Cochrane Systematic Reviews. Her goals are to contribute with scientific evidence to improve nutritional recommendations and programs oriented to childbearing-age, pregnancy and early infancy.

Caitlyn Pelletier, BA
Program: PHD, Molecular
cmp298@cornell.edu
Advisor: Martha Field
Entered: Fall 2023

Caitlyn is from Wilbraham, MA. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania in Neuroscience and Nutrition Science with a minor in Anthropology. For her undergraduate research she studied the neural controls of feeding behaviors. Outside of the lab she enjoys cooking, hiking, and playing music.

Chloe Purello, MS, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
Email: ctp55@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

I grew up in Pittstown, New York. Fascinated by the role of nutrition in chronic disease for much of my life, I decided to major in nutritional sciences at Cornell University (class of 2022). There, I developed research interests pertaining to the dysregulation of metabolic pathways in conditions like type 2 diabetes, obesity, liver and kidney disease, and more. I hope to continue the study of metabolic disease in graduate school and unveil the molecular mechanisms responsible for impaired metabolic functions so that I can identify biomarkers and interventions for such conditions. Outside of academics, I love going to the gym, hiking, singing, and cuddling with my guinea pig.

Jiafan (Billy) Qiu, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
Email: jq252@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Jiafan (Billy) Qiu is a first-year Ph.D. student in Molecular Nutrition. He earned his bachelor degree at Macau University of Science and Technology in Food and Nutritional Sciences. His academic journey is intertwined with a life-changing experience, shedding from 243 lbs. to 160 lbs., which sparked his curiosity and attention towards the obesity research. In his free time, Billy finds joy in shooting hoops on the basketball court, capturing moments through photography, exploring nature through hiking, and giving back to the community by volunteering at Macau non-profit organizations.

Pratiwi Ridwan, MD, MS
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
pr453@cornell.edu
Advisor: Saurabh Mehta
Entered: Fall 2021

Pratiwi Ridwan is a third-year Ph.D. student with a concentration in International Nutrition. Before attending Cornell University, she earned a Bachelor of Medical Science and Medical Doctor from Universitas Padjadjaran in Indonesia. She worked at the community health center for three years in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, where she gained her interest in infectious diseases and malnutrition. Pratiwi earned a Master of Science from Cornell University in 2019.  Currently, she works with Mehta Research Group with the research focus on nutrition and immune response in different life stages, including women of reproductive age and early childhood. During her free time, Pratiwi loves to travel and enjoys film photography.

Mochammad Rizal, MS, RD
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
Email: mr855@cornell.edu
Advisor: Saurabh Mehta
Entered: Fall 2024

Mochammad Rizal is a PhD student working under Dr. Saurabh Mehta in the Mehta Research Group. He holds degrees in Nutrition from Politeknik Kesehatan Surabaya (Diploma), Universitas Airlangga (BSc), Cornell University (MS in Human Nutrition Evidence for Policy Making), and Universitas Esa Unggul (Registered Dietitian). His research interests include applying Artificial Intelligence to optimize dietary intake and nutritional status. An active educator, Rizal has authored multiple books, been invited as a speaker at over 150 seminars, and regularly contributes to media on nutrition topics. Rizal also leads the Nutrition for Fitness Division at the Indonesia Sport Nutritionist Association (ISNA). Outside academia, Rizal enjoys going to the gym and sharing nutrition tips on his Instagram @rizalnutritionist.

Andrea Robinson, BS
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
ar2353@cornell.edu
Advisor: Saurabh Mehta
Entered: Fall 2020

Andrea Robinson is a graduate student in the Mehta Research group at Cornell University. She is working towards a PhD in Nutritional Sciences with concentrations in International Nutrition and Epidemiology. She was a National Cancer Institute Post-baccalaureate Fellow at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where she studied multi-drug resistance in cancer cells. Andrea received a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology in 2016, cum laude, from the University of North Texas. As a graduate student, Andrea has received the Cornell Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship, the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, and the Robert Mozia Graduate Distinguished Service Award. Her research interests are focused on examining the interaction of nutrition and the immune system in children. Outside of research, she enjoys working out, hanging out with friends, trying new foods, and spending time with her cat and dog. 

Elena Runfeldt
Program: PHD, International
enr23@cornell.edu
Advisor: John Hoddinott
Entered: Fall 2023

Elena received her BS in Nutritional Sciences from Cornell University in December 2021. In undergrad, she worked on a systematic review to assess the potential for transmission of COVID-19 through breastmilk. Prior to returning to Ithaca, she completed a Fulbright independent research award with the University of the West Indies and The Heart and Stroke Foundation's childhood obesity management program in Barbados. Her current research efforts focus on an insect-fortified cracker feeding trial, which will be incorporated into Mianatra, a school feeding program, in Farafangana, Madagascar. In her free time, she enjoys yoga and cooking new vegan recipes.

Lauren San Diego
Program: PHD, Community
lds224@cornell.edu
Advisor: Tashara Leak
Entered: Fall 2023

Lauren San Diego originally came to Cornell as part of the inaugural cohort for the Thomas Wyatt Turner fellowship during her master’s degree program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Florida International University where she was an NIGMS RISE fellow. She completed her dietetic internship through the University of Oklahoma. As a registered dietitian, she developed and implemented community nutrition programs and interventions in various populations through North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and worked with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program during COVID-19. Lauren aims to orient her career towards mitigating the causes and challenges of food insecurity through research, policy, and local community partnerships.

Devika Saran, MS
Program: PhD, International Nutrition
Email: ds2467@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Devika Saran, a dynamic force in nutrition and public health, seamlessly transitions from a B.Sc. in Home Science to spearheading impactful maternal and child health programs. Recognizing the constant need for improved food environments, she champions evidence-based nutrition solutions with a purpose-driven approach, highlighted by her PG Diploma in human nutrition. Her dedication to addressing societal disparities in low-income groups is evident through her focus on maternal and child nutrition, as illustrated in a UNICEF-funded project. This initiative led to an impact evaluation analysis, assessing the intervention's effectiveness in improving maternal health and reducing malnutrition. Her areas of interest encompass anemia during pregnancy, maternal and child health, biofortification, micronutrient deficiencies, gut microbiome, and millet-based interventions. 

Moreover, her love for culinary exploration seamlessly intertwines with her nutritional expertise. She takes delight in experimenting with innovative recipes that balance delicious flavors and optimal nutritional content. Inspired by personal challenges, Devika's commitment solidifies—to empower individuals with mindful nutrition choices. 

Beyond academics, she embraces an active physical and mental well-being lifestyle, complemented by her love for reading and spending time with her husband and their dog, Scotch. Her interests extend beyond academia, blending fitness, travel, culinary exploration, and a genuine passion for diverse cultures, shaping a well-rounded perspective. 

Savita Sastry
Program: PHD, Molecular
scs298@cornell.edu
Advisor: Toly Aydemir
Entered: Fall 2023

Savita is a molecular biologist at fungal genomics startup, Hexagon Bio invested in creatively integrating experiment and computation to understand the molecular mechanisms of disease through studying gene-environment interactions, the gut microbiome, metabolomics, and/or other -omics techniques. She is convinced that diet and nutrition will more definitively lead preventative care efforts and lead us to answers that explain disproportionate disease burdens across our populations. She cares to leverage the priviledge of engaging in microbiome, genomic, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics research to study the effects of diet through a technical and scientific lens while keeping in mind that doing so can ultimately restore power back to those who have the potential to use nutrition as a healing modality.  

Lauren Spiegel, BS
Program: MS, Public Health
Lms424@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Lauren obtained her B.S. in Health Sciences with a double minor in Chemistry and Holistic Health Sciences from Wells College. She is a first-year Master’s student and is especially interested in working in sports nutrition and  adolescent reproductive health and nutrition. Lauren worked in Dr. Heidi Vanden Brink’s lab in the summer of 2023 at Texas A&M University conducting research on how excessive sugar-sweetened beverage intake could lead to the development of PCOS in adolescent females. Outside of the lab, Lauren enjoys playing lacrosse and field hockey, spending time at the lake with her family, and traveling with friends!

Colette Strathman, BS
Program: MS, Dietetics
Email: ces339@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Colette grew up in rural Missouri and her love for nutrition led her to Cornell University. Here she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences. She is a first-year student in the Masters of Nutrition program and her current research involves understanding the impact of different types of fiber on the gut microbiome in the Poole Lab. Her goal is to become a Registered Dietitian and she is interested in community nutrition and nutrition advocacy/policy. She is excited to explore these interests in grad school and the Dietetic Internship. Outside academics, Colette enjoys cooking, hiking, traveling, and playing video games with her friends. 

Ruoqi (Cynthia) Su, BS
Program: MS, Dietetics Track
Rs2625@cornell.edu
Advisor: Laura Bellows
Entered: Fall 2024

Cynthia, originally from Xi’an, China, earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Food Studies from New York University, where she also minored in Psychology and Japanese. She is currently pursuing a Master degree and will complete Dietetic Internship program at Cornell. Cynthia’s academic journey sparked her interest in culturally sensitive dietary interventions and community nutrition, with a particular focus on how family dynamics influence the nutrition of children and adolescents. Additionally, she is collaborating with a start-up to develop a comprehensive online dietitian platform in China. In her free time, Cynthia enjoys watching anime, exploring new cuisines, skiing, and traveling. 

Pei-Yin Tsai, MS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
pt389@cornell.edu
Advisor: Joeva Barrow 
Entered: Fall 2022

Pei-Yin got her BS in Nutrition at Taipei Medical University and MS from Cornell University. The more she learns about the association between nutrition and diseases, the more fascinated she becomes with metabolism. Her goal is to study more about how metabolic systems impact human health so that one-day people can enjoy their favorite foods without worrying about body weight and health status. In her free time, she likes cooking, eating, and painting.

Larissa van der Zon, BS, MS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
Email: lev36@cornell.edu
Advisor: Sander Kersten
Entered: Fall 2024

Larissa is a first year PhD student in Molecular Nutrition. She has previously obtained her M.S. degree in Nutrition and Health from Wageningen University, which was completed with an internship on cellular cholesterol uptake in Prof. Dr. N. Zelcer’s lab in the Amsterdam University Medical Centers. Additionally she has studied immunometabolism as research assistant at Wageningen University’s Nutrition, Metabolism and Genomics group. Driven by her passion for unraveling the molecular mechanisms that define us, she aspires to leverage our understanding of the fundamental interactions between nutrients and humans to improve well-being.

Ziyang Wang, MS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition,
zw762@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Ziyang is a first-year PhD student in molecular nutrition. He gained his bachelor degree from South China University of Technology and master degree at Boston University, majoring in nutrition and metabolism. He is interested in the interaction between metabolic disorder and liver or brain related disease. Out of the research, he enjoys soccer and running.

Matthew Williams, MS, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
Email: maw385@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Matthew is a PhD student from Jamaica. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of the West Indies Mona Campus and master’s in Biology from Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. After completing undergraduate studies, he worked as a Research Assistant at the University of the West Indies where he investigated the effect of nitric oxide synthase inhibitors on blood glucose concentration in type 2 diabetic rat models. In his masters’ thesis he focused on the effect of moderate intermittent hypoxia conditioning on blood glucose tolerance and indices of sympathetic neural activity in high fat fed rats. He is particularly interested in the molecular links between nutrition and metabolic diseases. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing soccer, running and participating in quizzes.

Ho Yarn (Elva) Wong, BS, MS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
Email: hw795@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

I am Ho Yarn, Wong, holding a master's degree in Nutrition and Health from Wageningen University & Research, specializing in molecular nutrition. I am enthusiastic about investigating the molecular mechanism underlying nutrition- and metabolic-related dysregulation and diseases. I am eager to further my expertise by learning about advanced research methods and techniques in nutrition at Cornell University. Specifically, I aim to explore molecular experiment design and Omics technologies, crucial for advancing my career in this field. On top of that, I am keen on enhancing my skills in analyzing omics data, recognizing its pivotal role in modern nutrition research. I consider myself a strong candidate backed by a robust research background, and I pick up new concepts swiftly. I am excited about the opportunity to learn alongside your faculty!

Xincheng Wu, BS
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
Xw353@cornell.edu
Advisor: Shu-Bing Qian
Entered: Fall 2021

Xincheng earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland, College Park. As an undergraduate, he conducted research in the Plant Genome Engineering and Plant Innate Immunity Lab, focusing on the design and testing of a novel CRISPR activation system. He is currently a member of Professor Shu-Bing Qian's research team, where he investigates cell death induced by cysteine and nutrient starvation, exploring its potential applications in cancer and non-cancer treatments.

Rujia Xie, BA
Program: PhD, Community Nutrition
Email: rx62@cornell.edu 
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Rujia Xie (she/her) is a first-year PhD student in Community Nutrition at Cornell. Originally from Guangdong, China, she moved to San Diego, CA a few years ago. Rujia earned her bachelor’s degree from Duke University, double majoring in Global Health and Public Policy with a minor in Sexuality Studies. During her undergraduate studies, Rujia assisted and/or led qualitative and quantitative projects at Duke World Food Policy Center, City of Hope, Duke Global Health Institute, Duke Center for Childhood Obesity Research, etc. Her research focuses on the food environment, food insecurity, culturally appropriate nutrition policies, and chronic disease disparities. At Cornell, Rujia aims to conduct culturally sensitive, community-driven research to enhance SNAP programs, nutrition policies, and retail and home food environments.

Yuke Xie, BS, MS
Program: PhD, Human Nutrition
Email: yx644@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

I am Yuke Xie, and I am currently doing a dietetic internship at UC Davis Medical Center, which is a hospital-based internship with an emphasis on clinical nutrition. I got my Bachelor’s degrees in Clinical Nutrition and Psychology at UC Davis. I then did my Master’s program in Nutrition at Columbia University at the Institute of Human Nutrition. During the program, I did my thesis project at Haeusler’s Lab. My project was to identify the regulatory mechanism of Manganese (Mn) efflux transporter (Slc30a10) in the liver. I have also practiced critical thinking and hands-on skills such as RNA extraction, qPCR, and genotyping. I believe my current involvement doesn’t fully capture my enthusiasm for research, so I want to delve more into nutrition-related research.

Ruihan Xu, MPH, RD, IBCLC
Program: PhD, Human Nutrition
rx68@cornell.edu
Advisor: Kimberly O'Brien
Entered: Fall 2023

Ruihan is a second year Ph.D. student in Dr. Kimberly O’Brien’s lab. She obtained her BA in Food System Nutrition and Health at the University of Washington-Seattle. Her MPH degree in Nutrition and Dietetics was completed at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. She was also trained in the MRT-TI international lactation consultant training program during her second year of MPH. After completing the Dietetic Internship and lactation clinical practice hours, she has obtained both the RDN and IBCLC credentials. Ruihan had cell culture and mice work experiences when she worked on obesity-cancer research in Dr. Stephen Hursting's lab at UNC. Now her PhD project focuses on the differences in vitamin D kinetics among women of reproductive age. Her general research interests are in breastfeeding, maternal and child nutrition, and precision nutrition. Outside of academia, she enjoys watching k-drama, traveling, baking, listening to music, and hanging out with friends.

Siwen Xue, PhD
Program: PhD, Molecular Nutrition
sx229@cornell.edu
Advisor: Dan Berry
Entered: Fall 2021

Siwen is a PhD student in Molecular Nutrition, with special interests in mitochondria and obesity relevant studies. Although she has accomplished her first PhD training in Food Science in China, she insists that a comprehensive PhD training in Molecular Nutrition, which requires totally different background knowledge from her previous program, will be beneficial to her future career path in academia. She joined Dr. Joeva Barrow’s lab in fall, 2021, focusing on using high-throughput screening methods to identify potential compounds that can reduce mortality and morbidity of mitochondrial diseases. This final target of this project is to explore the underlying mechanism of the biological features of mitochondria in response to these compounds, leveraging the outcomes at molecular level to assist the uncovering of cures/treatments for mitochondrial diseases. Siwen has great enthusiasm in science and academia, but she also enjoys powerlifting in the gym and driving her Jeep Wrangler out for a break.

Jie Avery Zhang, BS
Program: PhD, Human and Molecular Nutrition
jz2225@cornell.edu
Advisor: Marla Lujan
Entered: Fall 2021

Avery is a fourth-year PhD Candidate in Human Nutrition. She obtained her B.S. in Food Science and Human Nutrition with a minor in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Currently, Avery is studying the impact of weight loss in women with overweight/obesity and PCOS. In her spare time, Avery enjoys watching movies, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends.

Yuan (Karina) Zhang, BS, MS
Program: PHD, Human Nutrition
Yz3272@cornell.edu
Advisor: TBD
Entered: Fall 2024

Yuan (Karina) Zhang is a registered dietitian and a first-year PhD student in Human Nutrition at Cornell University. Originally from Shanghai, China, Yuan earned her Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics and her Master’s in Human Nutrition from McGill University in Canada. Her research interests cover a broad spectrum of nutritional science, including clinical dietetic practice, human trials, and the intricate study of gut microbiome and metabolic processes in both human and animal models.

Jiaqi Zou, BA, MSc
Program: PhD, Molecular 
jz998@cornell.edu
Advisor: Tolunay Beker Aydemir
Entered: Spring 2021

Jiaqi is a fourth-year PhD student in Molecular Nutrition. She completed her undergraduate degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge and her Masters degree in Clinical and Public Health Nutrition at University College London. She is a current member of the Aydemir group, and her research focuses on manganese transporters and the effect of excess manganese on the brain. Outside of research, she enjoys trying new foods, reading, and playing tennis.