The Ohio State University Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Nutrition Program (OSUN) is an interdisciplinary program established in 1996. The program is designed to provide a plan of course work as well as experiential learning that will prepare students for the interdisciplinary nature of modern nutrition science, equip students to adapt to the constantly developing and changing methods in quantitative and qualitative research in the nutritional sciences, and provide students with the oral and written communication skills required for the competitive job market.
The OSUN program has access to multiple colleges on the Columbus campus; the OARDC Research Center in Wooster, Ohio; more than 15 departments; 40 faculty members; and prominent centers such as The James - Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Food Innovation Center, making it the only program of its kind in the state of Ohio.
Director, Amanda Bird
Dr. Bird is an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Sciences and Molecular Genetics. Research in the Bird lab uses fission yeast as a model system to identify the mechanisms by which cells control the acquistion, distribution, utilization, and storage of essential metal ions.
Associate Director, Alejandro Relling
Dr. Relling is an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences. His research is focused on understanding the biological mechanisms that regulate feed efficiency and adipose tissue metabolism and their impact on beef, sheep, and dairy production.