We work with and train the best students. Here are some of our current students and their research work.
Riccardo Martinez Barron, MS
Nutrition PhD
Department of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Alan Titchenal
Dissertation Topic
Perceptions of “desirable” body types and eating habits
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
It is an honor to be a part of this program. After a year of getting to know the HNFAS Department’s professors, I knew that the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa was the only program that I wanted to join. Faculty and staff have created a culture that is challenging yet extremely supportive. Everyone that I have interacted with has demonstrated a sincere concern for every student’s success. From the student perspective, you can feel the Aloha. Academically, there is freedom to explore personal interests as well as guidance when needed. As a student in this department, I am gaining a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between food, humans, and health. This understanding is what I will carry forward as I move closer to working with underserved populations.
Academic Highlights
- Hodge, D., Jones, D., Martinez, R., Buono, M.J. (2013). Time course of the attenuation of sympathetic nervous activity during active heat acclimation. Autonomic Neuroscience, 177(2), 101-3.
- Martinez, R., Jones, D., Hodge, D., Buono, M.J. (2012). Blocking the beta-adrenergic system does not affect sweat gland function during active heat acclimation. Autonomic Neuroscience, 169(2), 113-5.
- 2011 Kasch-Boyer Endowed Scholarship in Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University.
Michelle Blas Laguana, MS
Nutrition PhD
Department of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Science
Chair: Rachel Novotny
Dissertation Topic
Dietary Assessment of Children on Guam
Why did you choose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa?
While living and working on Guam, I’ve been fortunate to work with faculty from the University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM) and the University of Hawaii’s Cancer Center in various research and extension capacities, so to be able to further my studies and career at UHM felt like the natural choice. I’ve enjoyed the various courses the intercollege PhD program has allows me to explore as well as the opportunities and support I’ve been given working in small class sizes with my peers and faculty. The mentorship and experience I have gained thus far has been very rewarding and I feel blessed to be in such a great learning environment! I believe the knowledge and faculty mentorships I have gained here at UHM will help provide me with the tools to go back home and continue nutrition education and research with the ethnic populations of Guam.
Lianger Dong, MS
Nutrition PhD
Department of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Yong Li
Dissertation Topic
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
My research during M.S. studying was involved with lactase treated dairy products using nanotechnology which is beneficial for lactose-intolerant costumers. This experience encourages me to focus on practical research based on an interdisciplinary knowledge of biological, physicochemical, and engineering science to improve the quality, nutritional profiles and safety of foods. Dr. Yong Li’s research projects discover potential antimicrobial, anticancer, or nutraceutical properties of local fruits, investigation of the effects of food derived bioactives on gut microbiota, and development of novel fast detecting techniques of food born pathogens. His research is very intriguing to me and matches my academic goal of providing potential solutions addressing food safety and human health problems. In addition, the courses and resources provided by the Nutrition PhD program at UHM are diverse and advanced. I chose UHM to continue my education in food science because I believe this is a great opportunity to gain professional knowledge and skills for my career and explore microbials, food, and their relationship to overall wellbeing.
Academic Highlights
- Dong JL, Yu X, Dong LE, Shen RL. In vitro fermentation of oat β-glucan and hydrolysates by fecal microbiota and selected probiotic strains. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 2017 Sep;97(12):4198-203.
Solange Majewska Saxby
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Yong Li
Dissertation Topic
Effects of prebiotics and probiotics on colorectal cancers and obesity
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
University of Hawai’i Manoa offers a great interdisciplinary program, which was what I was searching for in a graduate school. I wanted to be able to connect my backgrounds in microbiology, human nutrition, and food science. Interweaving these fields would be made easy at UHM with the various course available to students. Furthermore, I am fortunate to be working on my research; the effects of prebiotics and probiotics in colorectal cancers and obesity. The academic advancements offered to me by UH Manoa are indeed bountiful, but my time in Hawai’i is also rewarding because of the place itself. I love living in the Aloha State, and I’m thankful to be where I can make the most of life.
Academic Highlights
- UHCC Fellowship, Analyzing Pacific Island Foods as Potential Prebiotics for the Prevention of Colorectal Cancer, AY2017-18.
Cherese Shelton, BS
Nutrition PhD
Department of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Monica Esquivel
Research Interest
Relationship between brain health and the development of Alzheimer’s disease
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics at the University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM). In this time, I found my passion for the college atmosphere and students. I realized that the most fulfilling career would be one where I can educate students about nutrition, while also conducting research that can benefit Hawaii. As an undergraduate student, I received a tremendous amount of support and opportunities that I believe are unique to UHM. I chose to pursue this Ph.D. Nutrition program because there is no other university that can provide more preparation in my pursuit to one day teach and conduct research as a professor at UHM.
Academic Highlights
- Carey D. Miller Memorial Scholarship, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation, 2018-2019.
Asuka Suzuki, RD, CLC
Nutrition PhD
Department of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Jinan Banna
Dissertation Topic
Characterization of parental practices supporting positive eating behaviors of adolescents in Hawai`i and Japan
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
I initially enrolled in the Master of Science (MS) program in Nutritional Sciences at the University of Hawaii in Spring 2016. During my first term in the MS program, I realized my passion for both research and teaching, and decided to further my education through the PhD program at the University of Hawaii. I had the privilege to work as a teaching assistant, and I was eager to gain new knowledge through that position, surrounded by passionate and distinguished professors and peers. Additionally, in my first semester, while I was enrolled in Dr. Jinan Banna’s Advanced Child and Adolescent Nutrition course, I assisted with her research project in Women Infants and Children (WIC) and became highly interested in research on underserved youth. I was fascinated by the class discussions on obesity prevention strategies, current nutrition interventions, relevant programs and policies, and assessing the validity of nutrition/physical activity tools designed for youth. Moreover, embarking on the doctoral program at the University of Hawaii will afford me the opportunity to work in a diverse community and address the nutritional needs of a predominantly Asian population in a region I have not yet explored. I chose to apply to the University of Hawaii because continuing to work in this environment with Dr. Banna would be ideal for developing my career.
Academic Highlights
- Hongu, N. Pope, B.T. Bilgiç P, Orr, B.J. Suzuki, A. Kim, A.S. Merchant, N.C. Roe, D.J. Usability of a smartphone food picture app for assisting 24-hour dietary recall: a pilot study. Nutr Res Pract. 2015
Michael Cen Wong, BS
Nutrition PhD
Department of Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. John Shepherd
Dissertation Topic
Using body shape from 3D optical imaging for health assessment
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
After spending a year working after college, I soon realized it would be difficult to get where I want to be without further education. When the opportunity came to pursue my PhD at UH Manoa, I left my life behind in California to follow my dreams and start a new life. Fortunately for me, things have fallen in place. I enjoy the work I’m doing, I have a great mentor, I made wonderful friends, and I have no regrets.
Academic Highlights
- Wong MC, Ng BK, Kennedy SF, Hwaung P, Liu E, Kelly N, Pagano I, Garber AK, Chow D, Heymsfield SB, Shepherd JA. Children and Adolescent’s Anthropometrics Body Composition from 3D Optical Surface Scans. OBESITY. Accepted, 2019. (top 5 manuscript and will be featured in the 7th annual OBESITY Symposium)
- Bennett K. Ng, Markus J. Sommer, Michael C. Wong, Ian Pagano, Yilin Nie, Bo Fan, Samantha Kennedy, Brianna Bourgeois, Nisa Kelly, Yong E. Liu, Phoenix Hwaung, Andrea K. Garber, Dominic Chow, Christian Vaisse, Brian Curless, Steven B. Heymsfield, John A. Shepherd. Detailed 3D Body Shape Features Predict Body Composition, Blood Metabolites, and Functional Strength: The Shape Up Studies. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Accepted, 2019.
Anja Wutz, MPH
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Carol Boushey
Dissertation Topic
Still unknown
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
Since I was a child, it has always been a dream of mine to move to the Hawai’ian islands. When I visited, I fell in love with the climate and the friendliness of the people. While researching universities, I came across the Nutrition PhD program at UHM and was interested in much of the work Dr. Boushey does, as it relates to public health and nutrition, which has been my primary background thus far. After talking with Dr. Boushey, I knew that UHM would be a perfect fit for my academic and life goals!
Academic Highlights
- Undergraduate Dean’s List scholarships, Summer Semester Study Abroad scholarship, Departmental Honors, 2018 global health nutrition education program in Accra, Ghana through Child Family Health International
Allison Calabrese
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Marie Fialkowski Revilla
Dissertation Topic
Cultural and social barriers that influence eating behaviors in Native Hawaiian Adolescents (Still fine tuning…)Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
I chose to enroll in the PhD Nutrition Program after completing my MS degree in Nutritional Sciences at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. Throughout my 2 years in the master’s program, I became enamored with everything this program has to offer. My mentor Dr. Fialkowski Revilla continuously challenges and supports me in my passions which has allowed me to grow as a professional in the field. I feel very blessed to be able to continue in this program as a PhD student to expand my knowledge and to better teach my students.Academic Highlights
Fialkowski M, Calabrese A, Tilinghast B, Titchenal A, Meinke W, Banna J, Draper J. Open Educational Resource Textbook Impact on Students in an Introductory Nutrition Course. 2020; 52(4): 359-368.
Radha Raman Raj
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Rachel Novotny
Dissertation Topic
Elucidation of mechanisms through which omega-3 PUFAs enhance adipocyte metabolic and endocrine functions, a healthier adipose tissue
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
Ever since my undergraduate days, I had a keen interest to work in the field of Nutrition. I believed nutrition is the area that holds a good prospect which can be applied to improve both human and animal health. As a result, to quench my thirst of knowledge in Nutrition, I planned to pursue PhD program focusing in Nutrition. I started looking at the different universities. After visiting the webpage of University of Hawaii at Manoa, I figure out that the UH as one of the best places to pursue PhD program as it has a wide array of pioneering research in the field of nutrition from animal to human nutrition. More specifically, I was really interested in research focused on combating obesity and metabolic disorder. Thus, I joined PhD program in UH under the mentorship of Dr. Mi Jeong Lee. My current research is focused on “Elucidation of mechanisms through which omega-3 PUFAs enhance adipocyte metabolic and endocrine functions, a healthier adipose tissue”. I believe we can address some of the major issues of obesity on the completion of my PhD program.
Academic Highlights
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Radha Raman Raj, Abha kumari and Guruprasad (2017). In vitro and in vivo screening of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor using Mangifera indica: A solution for hypertension. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, 6 (1):1063-1071. (DOI: 10.20959/wjpps201701-8378)
Biyu Wu
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Yong Li
Dissertation Topic
Potential of Ohelo Berry Proanthocyanidins for Preventing Urinary Tract InfectionsWhy did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
During my MS study in UHM, I had the opportunity to be exposed to the full range of Food Microbiology and be encouraged to uphold the values of attaining knowledge, discipline, and self-research. Meanwhile, I have developed a strong desire to explore more possibilities of utilizing efficient methods for the detection of bacteria in various food samples as well as in the human body. In particular, Dr. Li’s lab has extensive experience in probiotic bacteria and their effects on human health, which would be extremely beneficial for me to utilize in a future project. Therefore, I feel the best way to fulfill my future career is to continue my graduate study at UHM. I would relish the opportunity to leverage my past experiences for this worthy cause and learn from the experiences of my fellow team members in further research.Academic Highlights
Vanessa Araujo Almeida, MS
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Alan Titchenal
Dissertation Topic
Food Insecurity among College Students
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
I visited Hawaii for the first time in 2015 to participate in a conference and I fell in love with the island. I had just finished a food science master’s degree in Brazil, and I was looking for an academic experience where I could advance my career and learn from different perspectives. I chose the Ph.D. Program in Nutrition at UHM because I knew the immense cultural exchange I would be exposed to once I moved to Hawaii. I wanted to grow as a nutrition scientist and learn from highly qualified professors in a university that offers great infrastructure and a friendly environment that benefits learning. I was interested in having an enriching professional experience while finishing my educational pathway, and I couldn’t be happier about my choice.
Academic Highlights
Holmes, H., Almeida, V. A., Boushey, C., & Banna, J. (2020). Use of Technology for Dietary Assessment in Immigrant Populations. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 14(2), 118–121. https://doi.org/10.1177/
Almeida, V. A. & Davison, K. M. (2018, November). Consumers show greater improvements in dietary intakes and quality of life with nutrigenomic information to support change. Presentation at the Personalized Nutrition 2018 Conference – Translate the Science of NutriGenomics into Practice. Seattle, Washington.
Achievement Scholarship Grad Division Human Nutrition, Food & Animal Sci (B748). 2018-2019.
Dustin Valdez
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. John Shepherd
Dissertation Topic
Accessible early breast cancer detection technologies for women in the Pacific
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
After completing my Bachelor’s degree at UCLA I decided I wanted to further my education back at home in Hawaii. I felt that I would be able to make more of a difference for the people of Hawaii if studied at UH Manoa. Since coming to UH Manoa I have been working on various research projects such as working with WIC (Women Infant & Children) with gestational weight-gain and testing portable ultrasound devices for use in early detection of breast cancer. I have been learning a great deal about research from my mentor and looking forward to learning more.
Academic Highlights
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Rajesh Jha
Dissertation Topic
Still unknown
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
I completed Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and then MS in Microbiology from Sylhet Agricultural University in Bangladesh. The master’s program encouraged me to learn more about the effect of gut microbiota on nutrition. I found the Intercollegiate PhD Nutrition program of UHM is a nice blending of different fields and planned to pursue my higher study in this great educational atmosphere. My major determinant for choosing this program was Jha’s lab. The Jha’s Lab works with different alternative feed additives, their effect on the gut microbiome, nutrition and health of the monogastric animals. I consider this lab is an opportunity to know more about the nutritional sciences.
Academic Highlights
T. Malintha Gardi-Hewage
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Andre P. Seale
Dissertation Topic
Effects of temperature on transcripts related to osmoreception in prolactin cells of Mozambique tilapia
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
During my Master’s degree, I studied marine life sciences and biomedical sciences. I was specialized in aquafeeds and nutrition. Therefore, the Ph.D. Nutrition program was most suited to me. It is an honor for me to be a part of HNFAS and work in a friendly environment. I work in the Laboratory of Fish Endocrinology and Environmental Physiology, where I will conduct experiments in understanding the effects of temperature on osmoreception using tilapia as a model animal and develop aquafeeds using locally available ingredients. I believe that the knowledge and experiences I gain from UH and the help and guidance from the faculty would make this work successful.
Academic Highlights
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Kim, J., Malintha, G.H.T., Gunathilaka, G.L.B.E. et al. Taurine supplementation in diet for olive flounder at low water temperature. Fish Aquatic Sci 20, 20 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41240-017-0065-9
Brittany Castle
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Mark Thorne
Dissertation Topic
The Effects of Parasitism on Grazing Preferences of Small Ruminants on Hawaii Rangeland
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
After finishing my B.S. at Virginia Tech, I was drawn to UH Manoa because of their extension program. I completed my Masters in the Animal Sciences program working with pig farmers across the state, and it was an easy decision to continue my education in the Nutritional Sciences PhD program here at UH. The strong support network both within my department and across campus were huge factors in my decision.
Academic Highlights
- Castle, B.A.*, Odani, J., Jha, R., Ogasawara, N., & Zaleski, H.M. 2018. Survey of disease, management and biosecurity practices of Hawai‘i swine farmers. Poster session presented at the Annual American Society of Animal Science and Canadian Society of Animal Science Joint Conference, Vancouver, Canada, July 8-12, 2018.
- Castle, B.A. Primavera, T.G., Odani, J., Heskett, T.W., and Zaleski, H.M. 2018. Biosecurity procedures for visits to swine farms. University of Hawai‘i College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Cooperative Extension, Livestock Management LM-33.
- Odani, J.*, Zaleski, H., Ogasawara, N., Castle, B., Vannucci, F., and Heskett, T. 2017. Swine serosurveillance in Hawaii. Poster presented at the 60th Annual American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians Conference, San Diego, CA, Oct. 12-18, 2017.
- Castle, B.A.* 2017. Swine Diseases Cause Significant Production Loss in Hawaii. Lecture presented at the 64th Annual Meeting of the Hawai‘i Veterinary Medical Association, Honolulu, HI, Oct 26-27, 2017.
Christine Crosby
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Jinan Banna
Dissertation Topic
Still unknown
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
I chose the Nutrition PhD program at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa after completing a MPH program in Epidemiology and a Masters in Microbiology. I am interested in the effects of lifestyle on chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes and how the diet shapes the gut microbiome. I currently work for the DOH on disease prevention and would like to understand more on how the diet contributes to disease development. I feel the Nutrition PhD program is a good fit for my research interest in dietary inputs on the gut microbiome and my background in epidemiology.
Academic Highlights
Pauline McFall, MPH
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Rachel Novotny
Dissertation Topic Assessment of dietary intake and childhood obesity among American Samoan children
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
Growing up in American Samoa, we were not afforded a lot of opportunities for internships and experiential learning. I was fortunate to have been awarded a National Science Foundation young scholar opportunity to the University of Hawaii at Manoa under the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources department. That was many years ago, but it certainly sparked my interest in the field and in research. Even though it is rather ironic that I am now here working towards the culmination of my education at the exact place where it all began – I would not have had it any other way. The Intercollegiate PhD program here at the UH Manoa, HNFAS department provides me with the perfect blend of academics, research, professional development, and support towards my educational and research goals. The program also gives me the opportunity to study and work with my own Samoan culture and community to address specific health and nutrition disparities and issues that they and other US Affiliated Pacific Islands face. It is certainly a blessing to be here and to be a part of this program, and would highly recommend to other students who wish to pursue a career in nutritional sciences.
Academic Highlights
Jonathan Bennett
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. John Shepherd
Dissertation Topic
Hydration, nutrition, and exercise effects on multicompartment body composition modeling
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
Dr. Shepherd is an expert in the field of body composition. As a colleague in my previous role as Clinical Research Manager, I became interested in collaborative work with Dr. Shepherd to continue to advance the field of knowledge surrounding body composition research and its applications to health, disease risk, and sports performance. With additional professional experience in cancer research, the opportunity to work at the UH Cancer Center is an invaluable opportunity to continue my interest in both prevention and treatment.
Academic Highlights
MS in Exercise Science, with distinction
Jessie Kai
Nutrition PhD
Department Human Nutrition, Food, and Animal Sciences
Chair: Dr. Marie Fialkowski Revilla
Dissertation Topic
Hydration, nutrition, and exercise effects on multicompartment body composition modeling
Why did you chose the PhD Nutrition Program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa?
I wanted to learn from and share with my community.
Academic Highlights
ARCS scholar