Barry Popkin, W.R. Kenan Jr. Distinguished Professor of Nutrition at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, has made significant contributions to global public health over his lengthy career. Having moved to Chapel Hill in 1977 after spending three years conducting public health research among four million people in Manila, he pursued opportunities linked to cycling along less congested roads.

Read More

Popkin's work focuses on the intersection of diet, physical activity, and social change as it affects human health. Through his research, he has influenced global methodologies, mentored 66 doctoral students, and published hundreds of papers on nutrition policies that enhance child survival and promote longer, healthier lives worldwide.

He is recognized for coining the term "Nutrition Transition," which describes the shift in global diets from traditional foods to processed and sugary options, a transformation that has led to increased obesity and chronic diseases in many countries formerly known for hunger.

Born in Superior, Wisconsin, Popkin was active in sports and various jobs during his youth. His academic journey began with a significant experience in India in 1964, where he studied the impact of policy on housing and family structures. This experience sparked his interest in public health nutrition.

As of May 2023, at age 82, Popkin plans to transition to part-time status in 2027 but intends to remain active in competitive bridge and cycling. He reflects on his career with a sense of fulfillment in having contributed to public service.

Key achievements include:

- Development of the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey, which influenced UNICEF guidelines saving countless infant lives.

- Launching a longitudinal health survey in China, revealing variations in obesity and undernutrition across regions, exemplifying the Nutrition Transition.

- Collaborating with international researchers to advocate for healthier diets, leading to World Health Organization initiatives.

- Contributing to the formulation of the World Bank’s obesity strategy and securing funding for healthy eating research from Bloomberg Philanthropies.

Popkin’s work continues to shape public health policy and nutrition science globally.