The American Society for Nutrition Foundation (ASN Foundation) and the Novo Nordisk Foundation today announced the latest recipients of the annual ASN Foundation-Novo Nordisk Foundation Henrik Dam and Flemming Quaade Awards, now in their second year. The awards recognise two scientists whose work is driving new insights and solutions in nutrition and obesity. 

Named in honour of trailblazing Danish researchers Henrik Dam and Flemming Quaade, these prestigious awards support innovative work at the forefront of nutrition science and public health.  

Dr. Anna Elizabeth Thalacker-Mercer awarded the ASN Foundation-Novo Nordisk Foundation Henrik Dam Award for Scientific Discovery in Nutrition 

Anna Thalacker-Mercer, PhD, a leading nutrition scientist, has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Henrik Dam Award for Scientific Discovery in Nutrition. The award honours mid-career professionals for outstanding research contributions to the understanding of micronutrients, nutritional status, and metabolism. She is an Associate Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA. 

Dr. Thalacker-Mercer’s research is transforming how scientists understand the role of micronutrients in muscle health, metabolism, and aging. Her work has shown that amino acids once thought to be “non-essential” are actually critical for muscle regeneration and remodelling, reshaping scientific perspectives on nutrient requirements for tissue repair.  

She also studies nutrients such as vitamin B12 and their role in muscle mitochondrial biology and proteostasis (the cell’s protein quality control system), with important implications for chronic disease and age-related conditions such as sarcopenia. By combining molecular biology, metabolism, and clinical research, her work highlights how micronutrients actively support muscle resilience, recovery, and overall health. 

Widely recognised as a leader in the field, Dr. Thalacker-Mercer has advanced research that connects micronutrient biology to muscle function, aging, and disease. Her work integrates discoveries across laboratory, clinical, and population settings, translating complex science into insights that can inform health strategies and interventions.  

In addition to a strong record of research funding and publications, she contributes to the field through scientific leadership, collaboration, and mentorship of emerging investigators.  

The award includes a research grant of DKK 1.7 million; a personal award of DKK 300,000; a grant to host a symposium at her home institution; and an invited plenary lecture at NUTRITION 2026, the flagship meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, taking place 25-28 July, 2026, in National Harbor, Maryland, just outside Washington, DC, USA. 

Dr. Rachel Whooten receives the ASN Foundation-Novo Nordisk Foundation Flemming Quaade Award for Innovative Approaches to Childhood Obesity 

Rachel Whooten, MD, MPH has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Flemming Quaade Award for Innovative Approaches to Childhood Obesity. The award recognises early-career physicians who have made exceptional contributions to obesity prevention or management.  

Dr. Whooten is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children in Boston, where she is a member of the Divisions of Pediatric Endocrinology and General Academic Pediatrics.  

Dr. Whooten is recognised for research that is improving how pediatric obesity is prevented and treated through more coordinated and accessible care. Her work focuses on connecting primary care and specialised services, helping pediatricians deliver guideline-based treatment, including appropriate use of medications.  

She also explores how clinical care can be better integrated with behavioral and lifestyle support for children and families. By applying implementation science, her research is advancing practical, scalable approaches that improve access, quality of care, and health outcomes for diverse populations. 

An emerging leader in the field, Dr. Whooten combines expertise in pediatric endocrinology, public health, and implementation science. Her research spans prevention and treatment across the life course and emphasises collaboration with clinicians, patients, and communities.  

Supported by competitive federal funding, her work reflects a strong commitment to translating evidence into real-world strategies that improve care for children and families. 

Award benefits include a research grant of DKK 500,000 and a travel stipend to present a lecture at NUTRITION 2026. 

“It is our great pleasure to congratulate this year’s recipients of the ASN Foundation-Novo Nordisk Foundation awards, which recognise early- and mid-career professionals advancing innovative research in nutrition and obesity,” said Marie-Louise Hartoft-Nielsen, Vice President, Clinical Medicine & Diabetes at the Novo Nordisk Foundation.  

“Dr. Thalacker-Mercer’s work is reshaping our understanding of micronutrients and muscle health, while Dr. Whooten’s research is advancing practical approaches to improving pediatric obesity care. Together, their work highlights the important role of nutrition science in addressing major public health challenges. We look forward to celebrating their contributions at NUTRITION 2026.” 

Investing in the future of nutrition science 

These awards are part of a multi-year partnership between the ASN Foundation and the Novo Nordisk Foundation to recognise rising leaders in nutrition research and accelerate breakthroughs in global health. The Novo Nordisk Foundation has committed funding for the awards through 2027 and plays no role in the selection of recipients. 

“The work of Drs. Thalacker-Mercer and Whooten reflects the impact we aim to recognise with these awards. Their research is helping to close important knowledge gaps and advance more effective, real-world approaches to nutrition and obesity,” said Paul M. Coates, PhD, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the American Society for Nutrition Foundation.  

“We appreciate the Novo Nordisk Foundation’s continued partnership and commitment to supporting outstanding researchers whose work is improving health outcomes worldwide.” 

 

About the American Society for Nutrition Foundation 

The American Society for Nutrition Foundation (ASN Foundation) supports and strengthens the work of the American Society for Nutrition by funding programs that advance nutrition science, education, and public health. Through donor support, the Foundation helps translate research into practice and expand the Society’s impact around the world. The ASN Foundation’s work includes education programs, awards and scholarships, and recognition of leaders in the field through its renowned Fellows program. It also raises funds to address current challenges in nutrition and create new opportunities for the future. Learn more at nutrition.org/foundation.