University of Nevada, Reno has appointed registered dietitian and alum Justine Habibian as teaching assistant professor in the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources’ Department of Nutrition. A seasoned clinical dietitian with experience in acute and long-term care and community health, she brings more than a decade of patient care expertise to her new role.

Habibian, who earned her doctorate in cell and molecular biology from the University’s Molecular Biosciences Graduate Program, will teach community nutrition and medical nutrition therapy for undergraduates, as well as advanced medical nutrition therapy for the Master of Science in dietetics specialization. She will also teach sports nutrition and help develop new courses in nutrition leadership and advanced nutrition counseling techniques. Her teaching emphasizes discussion-based learning, critical thinking and evidence evaluation, skills she calls essential in an era of online misinformation.

“Justine’s combination of clinical and academic experience makes her a tremendous addition to our faculty,” said Chris Pritsos, interim chair of the Department of Nutrition, and the College’s associate dean of research and Experiment Station director. “Her ability to translate research and patient experience into classroom learning will prepare our students to meet the growing need for skilled dietitians.”

Before joining the faculty full time, Habibian worked as a registered dietitian at Spring Valley Hospital, Renown Regional Medical Center and in several outpatient and long-term care settings, including counseling cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. She previously served the University as an instructor and teaching assistant in medical nutrition therapy and introductory nutrition before transitioning into a research assistant professor role, working with Emeritus Professor Jamie Benedict on the statewide Rethink Your Drink initiative.

“Those years spent supporting patients and families strongly influenced my approach to teaching, where I feel I make the biggest impact,” Habibian said. “Dietitians are educators, whether in a hospital, clinic or classroom. I use real cases to help students understand how to apply concepts with empathy, accuracy and context.”

Habibian earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and her master’s degree in nutritional science from the University of Nevada, Reno, where she also earned a doctorate. She has been a registered dietitian for more than 10 years.