Melissa Totten

Melissa Totten is a Professor at Salem College, specializing in Nutrition Science and Trace Element Research. Her work focuses on the intersection of diet, trace minerals (zinc, copper, iron, selenium), oxidative stress, and anxiety. She has published peer-reviewed articles on topics such as the impact of high-fat diets on trace elements in mice and the antioxidant properties of almond milk. Totten’s research often involves collaborations with undergraduate students, emphasizing hands-on learning. She is a member of the American Society for Nutrition and serves as a reviewer for the journal *Nutrients*. Additionally, she engages in community initiatives like the Crop Hunger Walk and has prior experience as a chemist with patents in food packaging adhesive technology.

Her research interests include understanding how dietary trace minerals influence anxiety disorders and developing evidence-based strategies for mental health through nutrition. Totten’s academic leadership and commitment to undergraduate research highlight her role in fostering scientific inquiry at Salem College.