Global Impact: Khoja PhD Finalist Takes the Stage in U.S. Nutrition Science

 
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US-based Graduate Research Assistant Elina Dawoodani Wadia has been one of the six finalists in the Student Interest Group (SIG) Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, at the American Society for Nutrition (ASN)’s flagship event NUTRITION 2025.

About Elina Dawoodani Wadia
Originally from Mumbai, India, Elina is a US-based Ph.D. candidate in Nutrition Science and a Graduate Research Assistant at Purdue University, the alma mater of Neil Armstrong. With a strong commitment to global health and nutritional interventions, Elina has focused her research on strategies to combat iron deficiency anemia among women of reproductive age in India. Her work demonstrates not only academic excellence but also a deep sense of social responsibility and practical application in real-world health challenges. Her academic journey, under the banner of Purdue’s Health and Human Sciences department, continues to garner national attention for its impact and innovation.

NUTRITION 2025 Event
Elina has been named one of six finalists out of 191 applications in the highly competitive Student Interest Group (SIG) Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition at NUTRITION 2025, hosted by the American Society for Nutrition. Sponsored by the National Dairy Council. She is also selected as a finalist in the Emerging Leaders in Nutrition Science Poster Competition, which received nearly 600 abstracts. Evaluated by over 400 nutrition scientists, only the top 10% were recognised.

What does this Achievement mean for Elina?
Elina’s selected abstract, titled “Encapsulated Ferrous Fumarate Double Fortified Salt Improves Iron Status and Reduces Iron Deficiency Anemia in Women of Reproductive Age in Madhya Pradesh, India,” stands out for its relevance and social impact. Her study offers a scalable, evidence-based solution to a widespread nutritional challenge.

Being a finalist in such a high-profile competition significantly elevates Elina’s academic and professional profile. She will present her research at the Orange County Convention Centre on June 1, 2025, before a panel of experts and an audience of global nutrition leaders. Apart from the monetary award, the winners will be recognised at the ASN Foundation Awards Ceremony.

This achievement not only affirms Elina’s strengths as a researcher but also paves the way for new opportunities in collaboration, networking, and potential policy impact. Her recognition marks her as a rising leader in nutrition science, with work that is already making a meaningful contribution to global health.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Elina is a prominent figure in the digital parenting community through her Instagram account @momfunda. With approximately 145,000 followers, she shares content on child nutrition, parenting tips, and healthy recipes. Her dual role as a researcher and influencer allows her to bridge the gap between scientific research and everyday parenting, making complex nutritional information accessible to a broader audience.

The Khoja News Team congratulates Elina on this remarkable achievement and wishes her the very best for the finals. We pray to Allah (swt) to bless her with continued success in all her future endeavours. Ameen.

References:

  1. (22) Elina Wadia (née Dawoodani) | LinkedIn
  2. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/purdue-nutrition-science
  3. 50+ Indian Mom Blogs and Influencers a Mother Should Follow – TCT
  4. Top Mom Bloggers of Mumbai 2024: The Ultimate List! – Saba scribbles
  5. https://www.instagram.com/momfunda/