Leading a team of clinical researchers investigating digital health interventions for weight loss, diabetes support, diabetes prevention, stress and anxiety management, and cancer support.

Planned nutrition strategies for beverages, snacks and cereals, conducting studies assessing functional potential of novel ingredients or differentiated micronutrient forms. Evaluated business potential of new ingredients and health claims. Performed due diligence on open innovation proposals. Managed portfolio innovation and renovation towards healthier products with scientifically-supported benefits, including claims strategy/regulatory processes, product formulation and consumer insights.

Established neuroscience program within NIHS, built team of neuroscientists, performed due diligence on business/research partnerships, developed nutrition-based therapies for aging, eating behavior, brain development and mood. Designed and managed pre-clinical and clinical studies assessing the effect of food-based compounds on cognition, consumption, mood and development (micronutrients, probiotics, polyphenols, ketogenic diet).

Designed and managed clinical studies on cognitive and affective effects of food-derived bio-actives both in the Unilever internal clinical study facility and also via collaborations with universities and CRO’s. Researched and tested potential biomarkers in cell culture and animal models of disease (Alzheimer’s and depression) for use in human studies. Performed in vitro assays of neuroprotective potential of polyphenols and related substances. Assisted in the long-term planning and scope of large-scale programs testing for functional ‘brain’ foods. Managed teams from diverse departments (bio-polymers, clinical, patent, in vitro testing) in carrying out research projects on efficacy of selected molecules and targets.

Laboratory of John Neumaier, Dept. Psychiatry and PathologyResearched cognition-enhancing potential of 5-HT6 receptor manipulation. Performed cell culture, gene reporter and radioligand binding assays, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization and molecular biology techniques (i.e. vector construction). Conducted behavioral tests i.e. open field test, two object discrimination, Morris Water maze and operant conditioning; programmed MED-PC notation behavioral protocols. Performed stereotaxic surgery, viral injections, cannula implantation and microdialysis.