Message from Dr. Melinda Beck, Interim Chair of the Department of Nutrition

Dr. Melinda Beck

Improving nutrition is a pivotal factor in improving public health around the globe. Critical public health issues – ranging from food insecurity and obesity to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer – depend on nutrition research and practice. With the disproportionate effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on people and communities of color, nutrition research and practice are critical factors in addressing health inequity and improving public health. Evaluating health risks for populations and developing strategies to reduce these risks through nutrition requires innovative and interdisciplinary research that spans the continuum from basic science to social science research, clinical interventions and public policy.

As the only school of nutrition based in both a school of public health and a school of medicine, our faculty members are global leaders in a wide range of areas, including scientific and clinical nutrition, medicine, laboratory and population-based research and public policy. This unique situation allows our students to see connections among the disciplines and prepares them to become the next generation of leaders in their fields. Our areas of focus are balanced by a commitment to research and training that improves the health of people of color and that of underserved populations. We are committed to researching and delivering improved nutritional health to populations both in North Carolina and around the world.

If you are contemplating a career that focuses on nutrition, health and well-being, we hope you will consider the Gillings School of Public Health and the Department of Nutrition.

With Warmest Regards,

Melinda Beck

Melinda Beck, PhD, is Professor of Nutrition, Associate Chair of Academics and Interim Chair in the Department of Nutrition at the UNC Gillings School of Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.