Highlighting Our Incredible VAND Members!

Erica Memoli, MS, RD, CNSC

Tell us about your current position of employment.

I work as a clinical research coordinator in the Department of Pediatrics at VCU. The main departments I support are Endocrinology and Pulmonary. In my role, I assist with study start-up, budget planning, study team training, recruitment, coordination and implementation of study visits, data management, study review and closeout.

Currently I am working on a few studies that are looking at various oral anti-diabetic medications in children with type 2 diabetes. The medications have FDA approval for adults, but not in children. These studies are really exciting because, currently, the only oral option children have is Metformin. With more options available, kids are less likely to be put on insulin at a young age.

I also work as needed at a local Physical Therapy clinic providing nutrition counseling. 

What inspired you to join the field of dietetics?

I wanted to teach people how to be empowered by the food they eat, not fearful. I also wanted to keep pushing the boundaries of nutrition research, which is why I am in the position I am in now!

What do you enjoy about being a member of VAND?

The resources provided and all of the networking opportunities. I also like the potential for leadership opportunities. 

Tell us something surprising about yourself!

I have a goal to hit all 7 continents before I’m 35. I’ve been to 5! I still have South America and Antarctica. My husband and I have been playing with the idea of going to the tip of South America and then taking a Research Cruise to Antarctica. We will see if I can get this done in the next 7 years!

What are your favorite things to do outside of work?

Take long walks with my dog, play pick-up basketball, go to the farmers market, and create unique recipes! 

What are you looking forward to in 2022?

Getting more involved in the research world and potentially starting a few projects of my own. While I love working in diabetes research, the dream would be to work on studies looking at various aspects of nutrition support in the critical care population.

Thank you to Erica for being such an important part of our profession!