Odara Thomas

Nutrition Scientist and translational researcher with 19+ years of experience spanning clinical research, nutrition science, exercise physiology, and metabolism. Ph.D. in Public Health with a strong record of evaluating scientific literature, developing evidence-based nutrition content, and translating complex research into clear, compliant, and commercially relevant communication. Trained in Good Clinical Practice (FDA-focused, ICH E6) and human subjects research, with hands-on experience coordinating multidisciplinary studies, managing research ethics review, and authoring peer-reviewed publications.

Brings a rare combination of rigorous scientific evaluation, cross-functional collaboration, and the storytelling ability to connect science to real-world product and business needs.

Postdoctoral Fellow & Research Coordinator at University of São Paulo (USP), School of Medicine — Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Applied Physiology & Nutrition Research; NeuroSport Lab (2022-01 – Present)

• Coordinated multidisciplinary nutrition and exercise physiology research studies, overseeing protocol design, human subjects compliance, and data integrity.
• Critically evaluated scientific literature to support study design and interpret findings on nutrition, performance, and cognitive function.
• Authored and co-authored peer-reviewed manuscripts translating complex physiological data into clear scientific narratives for publication.
• Collaborated across clinical, physical education, and research teams to align study outcomes with evidence-based practice.

Full Professor & Postgraduate Program Coordinator at University Center Santo Agostinho (UNIFSA), Department of Nutrition (2010-01 – 2022-12)

• Coordinated the Postgraduate Program in Clinical and Sport Functional Nutrition, guiding 25+ graduate research projects on ingredient efficacy, supplementation, and clinical nutrition.
• Served as Scientific Editor for a peer-reviewed nutrition journal, reviewing manuscripts for scientific rigor, accuracy, and clarity.
• Sat on the Research Ethics Committee (IRB equivalent), evaluating study risk, informed consent, and regulatory compliance.
• Advised 30+ undergraduate theses and mentored students in evidence-based literature review and research methodology.

Research Coordinator, Department of Clinical Medicine at IOP-GRAACC, Institute of Pediatric Oncology, UNIFESP (2021-01 – 2022-12)

• Coordinated clinical research protocols and nutritional intervention studies within a pediatric oncology research center.

Research Coordinator, Department of Nutrition at Associação Piauiense de Combate ao Câncer (APCC), São Marcos Hospital (2018-01 – 2020-12)

• Developed and implemented nutritional assessment and supplementation protocols for oncology patients, including PG-SGA and enteral nutrition support protocols.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist — Clinical & Sport Nutrition at Private Practice (2015-01 – 2022-12)

• Provided individual and group nutritional counseling grounded in current scientific evidence.
• Conducted food analysis and supported product development for functional food and nutrition applications.

Ph.D. in Public Health – Federal University of São Paulo (2013-01 – 2017-12)

M.S. in Public Health – Federal University of São Paulo (2008-01 – 2010-12)

B.S. in Nutrition – University NOVAFAPI (2003-01 – 2007-12)

Postgraduate Specialization in Exercise Physiology Applied to Health Promotion and Sports – Federal University of São Paulo (2021-01 – 2023-12)