Show notes
In this episode of Feed Me the Facts, we sit down with Dr. Navika Gangrade, a visiting assistant professor at NYU and registered dietitian, to unpack the journey of pursuing a PhD in nutrition. We discuss her experiences navigating academia as a woman of color, the financial realities of graduate school, and the power of research to drive real-world change. If you’ve ever considered academia, research, or even wondered about the impact of a PhD in dietetics, this conversation is for you!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Navika’s Journey into Nutrition & Research How her multicultural upbringing and love for food led her to dietetics and academia.Why Pursue a PhD? (06:00)What inspired Navika to continue her education and dive into research.Navigating Academia as a Woman of Color (12:00)The challenges, barriers, and the role of mentorship in her success.Community-Based Research & Youth Advocacy (19:00)How her research empowers young people and promotes health equity.Money & Respect: Does a PhD Pay Off? (25:00)Breaking down financial realities, funding, and salary expectations.Advice for Future Dietitians in Academia (35:00)How to navigate PhD programs, find mentors, and advocate for yourself.



