Michele Nikolai

Michele Nikolai is a Teaching Professor at the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition within Michigan State University's College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. She has a professional background as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with expertise in clinical nutrition management, pediatric nutrition, and ketogenic diet applications for brain cancers.

• Education: MS (1997) and BS (1987) from Michigan State University
• Professional Roles: Academic Specialist - Teaching, Michigan Nutrition & Dietetics Institute Trustee

Her research focuses on nutritional interventions for brain cancers, particularly ketogenic diet therapy in combination with radiation and chemotherapy. Other research areas include pediatric nutrition, cystic fibrosis, vitamin D supplementation, and dietary impacts on health behaviors.

Notable publications explore therapeutic ketogenic diets for glioblastoma multiforme, caregiver roles in dietary implementation, and feasibility studies. She has presented at conferences including the American Institute for Cancer Research and FASEB.

• Scientific Awards: Excellence in Teaching – New Teacher Award (2024)

She teaches courses such as HNF 444 - Business of Nutrition Services and HNF 471 - Medical Nutrition Therapy I, while maintaining affiliations with multiple research centers including the Center for Research on Ingredient Safety and the MSU Sensory Evaluation Center.