Dr. Lydia Kaume is a National Program Leader in the Division of Nutrition, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition at the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, USDA (NIFA). Lydia’s program portfolio includes the Community Foods Projects Program and A1343: Food and Human Health. She also provides support to A1721 Extension, Education and USDA Climate hubs Partnership, and A1741 Center for Research, Behavioral Economics, and Extension on Food Loss and Waste.
Lydia’s research background is in Human Nutrition with a focus on the role of dietary bioactive compounds in prevention and management of chronic diseases including bone health and cardiovascular conditions. Prior to joining NIFA, Dr. Kaume specialized in translating nutrition research and evidence into extension programs to advance the strategic goals of the Land-grant University mission. Dr. Kaume is a graduate of two prestigious Leadership Programs and a recipient of several outstanding awards. Her education background includes Bachelor of Education at Kenyatta University (Kenya), Master of Science in Human Nutrition, Ph.D. in Food Science from the University of Arkansas, and RDN (Registered Dietetic Nutritionist) at Iowa State University.