About Us
As a trailblazer in precision nutrition research, the UNC Nutrition Research Institute investigates the intricate interplay between nutrients, lifestyle behaviors, environmental influences, genetic and other biological factors. We’re dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of nutritional diversity among individuals. By leveraging top-tier scientific minds and cutting-edge genetic, metabolic, and digital tools, we’re poised to revolutionize personalized nutrition recommendations and the behavioral support tools needed for realizing healthier futures.
Building upon our legacy as a leader in fundamental and translational science, we’re expanding our reach into human clinical and community trials. I am determined to further this expansion, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of cutting-edge research both in our laboratories and within our communities.
The NRI is forging a path towards a healthier tomorrow for generations to come. Through this website, we aim to keep you informed about our fantastic people, latest developments, participation opportunities, milestones, and community engagements.
Deborah F. Tate, PhD
Deborah F. Tate, PhD
Interim Director
Professor of Nutrition
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Precision Nutrition Dive Deeper Board of Advisors UNC Chapel Hill Map Support
The UNC Nutrition Research Institute is an internationally recognized center that conducts innovative basic and translational science studying how individual differences in requirements and responses to diet affect our individual nutritional needs. We believe that our advances in nutrition science are leading to successes in preventing or mitigating the negative effects of chronic diseases and aging and in improving human development, even prior to conception.
MISSION
To lead the field of Precision Nutrition research by applying advanced scientific methods for understanding individual requirements for and responses to nutrients.
Faculty
Investigators research the role of nutrients in preventing disease, diet-related health behaviors and risk factors for disease, the effect of the environment and genes on disease outcomes, and the impact of gene-nutrient interactions.
Funding
As a nonprofit center, the NRI receives state funds, federal grants, and private donor gifts to explore new scientific ideas, recruit the world’s best scientists, and provide hands-on education and mentoring of students.
Kannapolis
The Nutrition Research Institute is located in Kannapolis, a blossoming community near Charlotte. With a population of 48,000, Kannapolis offers many modern-day conveniences while maintaining its welcoming small-town feel.
NRI Advisory Board
Our advisory board plays a crucial role in elevating the UNC Nutrition Research Institute (NRI) to world-class stature. Comprised of visionary leaders and experts from diverse fields, our board members are dedicated advocates for the NRI’s mission. They enhance our local, national, and global presence, secure essential resources, foster strategic partnerships, and provide invaluable guidance. By supporting groundbreaking nutrition research, our board helps us revolutionize nutrition science and achieve advancements in health and wellness.
The UNC Nutrition Research Institute building is located on the 350-acre NC Research Campus in Kannapolis.
UNC Chapel Hill
The Nutrition Research Institute is a unit of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. With an environment that inspires pioneering research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, UNC Chapel Hill has long been an agent for economic prosperity in North Carolina. At the NRI we are proud of our Carolina heritage and to be representing it on the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis.
NC Research Campus
The North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis, just north of Charlotte, is home to eight university research centers, plus industry, government and nonprofit organizations that share the goal of empowering human health through nutrition. Collectively, scientists focus on understanding the science behind precision nutrition and safer, more nutritious crops and foods.
Support the NRI
By donating to the Nutrition Research Institute, your money targets the root of most American disease. Our scientists focus on how our genes respond to food so that soon medical practitioners will be able to guide people in their health from childhood through old age. Our critical research depends on the generosity of people like you.