Meet the Students: Alana Chaney

Alana Chaney

Undergrad

Fort Valley State University, Biology, 2016

Grad Group 

Graduate Group in Nutrition Biology
Projected Graduation Year: 2026

Research Focus Area

My research focuses on how prenatal nutrition, breastfeeding practices, and early childhood feeding behaviors influence long-term health and development. Her dissertation explores individual and community-level factors contributing to infant nutrition disparities, and how targeted interventions can help reduce these inequities. 

Background

What sparked your initial interest in the field of global nutrition? 

I discovered my passion for community nutrition during the Nutritional Biology Graduate Admissions Pathways (NUTGAP) program, a summer internship at UC Davis. Recognizing the critical impact of the first 1,000 days on lifelong nutrition habits, I was drawn to the field of maternal and child health. As a doctoral student, my first research project examined WIC policy changes during COVID-19, sparking a strong interest in nutrition policy and its impact on communities.

Experience at UC Davis

Is there a specific project or paper you are particularly proud of? 

A project I am proud of is work that examined changes to the WIC cash value benefit during COVID-19 and how those changes affected fruit and vegetable purchases among California WIC families with young children. This work is most meaningful to me because the project's findings supported the federal policy decision to permanently increase the benefit amount WIC families receive for fruits and vegetables. It's very rewarding to witness the impact your research has on people’s everyday lives. 

What advice do you have for future students? 

My biggest advice for future students is to maintain an open mind and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. During my time at UC Davis, I have built strong external networking and mentoring relationships, served as a science policy fellow for the American Society for Nutrition, and completed clinical training to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. There are endless opportunities available, but they may require stepping outside your comfort zone and even saying yes before you feel fully ‘ready’. 

What are your career goals after graduation? 

My long-term goal is to conduct policy-relevant research that can reduce nutrition disparities during the first 1,000 days of life. I am especially passionate about working with underserved populations, including low-income communities and families of color, who are often underrepresented in research and not well supported by existing programs. I am currently exploring postdoctoral opportunities and fellowships to gain advanced training in investigating disparities and in applying community-based participatory research approaches to better serve impacted communities.

When you aren’t working or studying, what do you do for fun? 

I am a big foodie and love exploring Sacramento’s diverse food scene to try new dishes. I also love to cook and bake, and I enjoy finding new recipes to try. Staying grounded is very important to me, and I find the most balance by spending time with my partner and friends and staying closely connected to my family.