Every day, we at FoodInsight are working hard to bring you great content by qualified experts. But who are these experts toiling away? In our series, “Better Know a Nutrition Expert,” we introduce you to the smart folks who make sure that you’ve got the very best information in food safety and nutrition. 

This week, meet Dr. Megan Meyer, our Program Manager of Health and Wellness Communications. Megan has a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology, focused on nutritional immunology. She helps make the science of our bodies’ nourishment more understandable, and sheds light on how to read science and science-reporting. In her free time, Megan loves to swim and be outside in all seasons. Wave to her if you catch her snowshoeing nearby! 

Better Know a Nutrition Expert: Dr. Megan Meyer Installment 

How I sum up what a nutritional immunologist does in one sentence: We look at how nutrition affects your body’s immune system and its ability to respond to pathogens or infections.

When I received my PhD: 2015

My favorite movie is: Heavyweights…or National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation!

For breakfast this morning, I had: Wheat bagel with scrambled eggs and smashed avocado.

What most surprises people most about nutrition scientists is: We’re not (all) awkward scientists! We can actually communicate pretty well and explain things, which is important for our work to have an impact.

My best memory of working in immunology is: Presenting my work at the Gordon Research Conference on Respiratory Illnesses. I presented on the effects of a nutritional antioxidant in broccoli and your immune response to the flu. I met so many scientists that I really admire; Professor Peter Openshaw was a highlight!

If I had to eat one meal the rest of my life, it would be: Sushi- spicy tuna rolls with seaweed salad.

My secret talent is: Swimming- I swam competitively in college. I feel like I can always come back to it, even if I haven’t gone swimming in 5 years. I also brew beer- I like farmhouse seisons and Belgians. My husband is a ‘hop-head’ though, so he likes us to do IPAs.

The best thing about working at FoodInsight is: Collaborating and working with such a diverse team every single day- no day is the same, the work is always unique and challenging.

One thing I cook well is:  Cheesecake! Every year I make my husband cheesecake for his birthday, so I feel like I’ve mastered that.

Ready to meet more amazing nutrition experts and Registered Dietitians? Visit the Better Know a Dietitian homepage.