Dr. Neilson’s research focuses on the interactions between dietary phytochemicals (particularly flavonoids) and the gut microbiome, and how these interactions influence human health. Of specific interest are the bioactivities of microbial metabolites produced when the gut microbiome metabolizes unabsorbed dietary components. Specific health areas of interest include gut health and metabolic syndrome. Prior to joining PHHI, Dr. Neilson spent 7.5 years as a faculty member at Virginia Tech.