Research Opportunities
Research Opportunities in Dietetics and Human Nutrition
Faculty and staff in Dietetics and Human Nutrition encourage students to become involved in undergraduate research and appreciate the support of undergraduate students in many of their research projects. In some cases, students may earn research course credit (1-3 credit hours) for DHN 591: Special Topics in Dietetics and Human Nutrition. For more information about undergraduate research, how to get involved, and potential sources of funding, visit the University of Kentucky Office of Undergraduate Research.
Explore the world of opportunity that awaits you in Dietetics or Human Nutrition research alongside our world class faculty members.
The Campus Kitchen
About Dr. Stephenson’s Research: The Campus Kitchen at the University of Kentucky (CKUK) has several ongoing research projects. Current projects are focused on evaluation of CKUK programming, including operations, Meals on Wings delivery to older adults, and the effects of student involvement in CKUK on workforce readiness and professional development.
Undergrad Research Activities: Students are needed to help with submitting materials through the Institutional Review Board (IRB), collecting survey and interview data, data cleaning, and dissemination of results through posters and professional journal articles.
Top Qualities Dr. Stephenson Looks for in Student Researchers: Familiarity with CKUK is helpful, initiative, attention to detail, passion for helping others in the community.
Dates: This opportunity is available for the 2024-2025 academic year. Contact Dr. Stephenson to learn about opportunities.
Food as Health Alliance
About Dr. Gustafson’s Research: Dr. Gustafson founded the Food as Health Alliance to bring together partners from healthcare, industry, agriculture, and the non-profit sector to research ways in which addressing food insecurity can improve health outcomes across the Commonwealth. The Food as Health Alliance has launched multiple food as medicine pilots to test a variety of food delivery packages for food insecure populations who are experiencing diet sensitive chronic disease. Our research is examining the effectiveness of these programs in both rural and urban communities.
Undergrad Research Activities: Data collection and study enrollment over the phone, patient counseling, data analysis, contribute to research including abstract submissions and presentation opportunities
Top Qualities Dr. Gustafson Looks for in Student Researchers: Detail-oriented, critical thinker, reliable (able to commit ~5 hours per week during the semester), comfort working remotely, strong communication and interpersonal skills
Dates: This opportunity is ongoing. Please click here to learn more.
Dr. Liz Combs
About Dr. Combs’s Research: The undergraduate experience is often characterized by significant academic pressures, social challenges, and the transition to independence, which can impact students' wellbeing and health. With increasing recognition of the importance of mental, physical, and emotional health, universities are exploring innovative approaches to support student wellbeing. My projects surround student health, wellness, and professional development.
Undergrad Research Activities: Data review and recording, literature reviews, and possible leading of interviews/focus groups.
Top Qualities Dr. Combs Looks for in Student Researchers: Dependable, communicative, and team-oriented.
Dates: This opportunity is available for the 2024-2025 academic year, including Summer 2025. Please contact Dr. Combs to learn more.
Connect With Us
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition
204 Funkhouser Building
Lexington, KY 40506
859-257-3800
