What was the main factor that drew you to the DCN program at SHP?  

A deep hunger for learning and a genuine curiosity! After several years working as an RD and completing my MSc in Nutrition in London, new questions began to surface in my clinical practice—questions I wanted to explore and answer more thoroughly. At that time, the internet and PubMed were not yet widely available, but international conferences exposed me to doctoral‑level colleagues from the USA, UK, and the Netherlands. Their expertise, research, and clinical excellence inspired me.

In 2003, I happened to discover the online Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition program while reading a nutrition journal at the library. Unlike a PhD, the Professional Doctorate emphasizes the integration of theory with clinical practice. I knew I did not want to step away from patient care to focus narrowly on a single research question. This program offered exactly the balance I was seeking. What made it exceptional was the combination of high‑quality, clinically focused coursework, outstanding faculty, practical skill‑building modules, and applied research. It was also among the very first online programs of its kind, allowing me to continue working while studying in the USA—an opportunity that was both innovative and invaluable at the time.

What would you say was one or two pivotal points in your career?  

The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know. And knowledge on its own is never enough—without practical application, it remains theory. At the same time, clinical practice without a solid evidence base is not sustainable. And even the strongest expertise cannot create meaningful impact unless communication is tailored, empathetic, and truly person‑centered. These insights have consistently shaped my professional journey.

What are one or two highlights of your career and how did you get there / make it happen? 

One major highlight was becoming the first Swiss dietitian to complete a Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition. Being a pioneer required perseverance and the ability to address and ease the skepticism of others. Looking back, this made my contribution to advancing clinical nutrition in Switzerland visible and helped strengthen professional standards within the field. At a time when Switzerland offered no academic postgraduate pathways in nutrition and dietetics, I was able to “plant seeds” and help ignite developments that moved the profession forward. One particularly meaningful contribution was my active role in introducing and establishing the Nutrition Care Process, which has since become foundational and is now integral to our quality assurance for third-party payers.

Another meaningful highlight was inspiring a younger colleague to pursue the same path at SHP. Watching her continue to advance the profession—through teaching physical assessment and contributing to the development of Advanced Dietetic Practice—makes me genuinely proud. It shows that steady effort, a clear vision, and commitment to quality can create effects that extend further.

Where are you going next? What are your plans for the future? 

I am now in the final phase of my career, and my focus has naturally shifted—from actively shaping the profession myself to supporting, and empowering the next generation. At the same time, I remain curious, open‑minded, and deeply committed to lifelong learning.

I am currently part of a research group within an international network that explores innovative approaches in precision medicine. Rapid advances in areas such as organ clocks, biomarkers, circadian biology, and precision diagnostics are opening new possibilities for healthy longevity. These emerging methods might also represent a significant shift for nutrition research and hold the potential to transform how personalized dietary guidance is developed and delivered.

This work enables me to integrate my practical experience, academic training, and clinical expertise in interventions that can be effectively translated into real‑world practice.

If you could speak to your young self, what words of wisdom or leadership advice would you give yourself and why? 

Exactly what I tell younger RDNs today: trust yourself more. If you truly want something and are willing to work for it, you can achieve it. Step outside your comfort zone, go international, and stay connected with people who share your values and ambitions.

I also remind them that every path comes with costs. The time and financial investment — and the personal sacrifices along the way — can be substantial. To succeed, you need genuine interest in learning, the patience for deep reflection, and a level of resilience that helps you stay steady through challenges and uncertainty. A doctoral degree is not something you simply “acquire,” and it does not automatically guarantee career success or financial rewards. What truly matters are commitment, consistency, good mentors, and staying in touch with like‑minded colleagues who inspire and challenge you.

How do you see the nutrition and dietetics profession change in the future? 

I look to the future with both optimism and realism. Evidence‑based nutrition therapy is gaining importance, nutrition-related diseases continue to rise, and digital tools, AI‑supported analysis, and personalized nutrition concepts offer exciting opportunities to enhance and individualize care. At the same time, new technologies may reduce the need for some traditional tasks and call for an adaptation of competencies and professional roles. The shortage of skilled professionals and increasing economic pressures in healthcare limit staffing levels and reduce the time available for meaningful patient interactions.

Overall, I see a profession in transition — full of opportunity, but also uncertainty. Nutrition and Dietetics will remain complex: it sits at the intersection of multiple disciplines, is shaped by cultural and emotional factors, and is embedded in political and economic realities.

The development of our profession over the past 30 years has been remarkable. We have achieved a level of recognition, expertise, and responsibility that earlier generations could only hope for. One of our most important tasks now is to preserve this progress — and to continue strengthening it.