Abby Glick, M.S. ’26, explores how zinc metabolism shapes metabolic and inflammatory disease in the Aydemir Lab

As a second year master's student in molecular nutrition, Abby Glick is exploring how micronutrients shape metabolic health across both molecular and human contexts. In the Aydemir Lab, her research focuses on zinc metabolism in metabolic and inflammatory diseases. She works with in vivo and ex vivo models to better understand how zinc absorption and transport influence disease progression.

Her work reflects a deep commitment to translational research, connecting fundamental mechanisms to human health applications.

We asked Abby a few questions about her experience in the Division of Nutritional Sciences:

Q: What is your area of research, and why is it important to you?

A: My current area of research includes how micronutrients influence metabolic health, particularly through absorption and transport dynamics within the gastrointestinal tract. We focus in particular on zinc metabolism, utilizing in vivo and ex vivo models to study its role in metabolic and inflammatory diseases. This work is incredibly important to me as I've seen firsthand the toll these diseases take on loved ones, and how important nutrition is in prevention and management.

Q: How do you hope your work will contribute to your field and/or society?

A: Currently, we lack key mechanistic insights into how zinc mitigates disease outcomes in metabolic or inflammatory disorders. It is my hope that this work will help provide these insights, ultimately improving our confidence and precision in using zinc-based interventions.

"This work is incredibly important to me as I've seen firsthand the toll these diseases take on loved ones, and how important nutrition is in prevention and management."

Abby Glick

M.S. ’26

Q: Favorite aspect of being a graduate student in Human Ecology and DNS?

A: It's easily the community of other students and faculty within this department! Research isn't always easy, but I've found a community of lifelong friends I can lean on. Although the state of the art facilities and equipment isn't too shabby ;)

Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of your research or studies?

A: I love running and biking, and even more so when it's with my fiancé Nate! I also love the parks and waterfalls here in Central New York, and it's where you'll find me most weekends (except 5–7 on Fridays cause that's reserved for drinks at the Big Red Barn)!

Abby Glick with a labmate in front of Savage Hall