Dr. Sukhinder Cheema

Dr. Sukhinder Cheema (she/her) is a Professor of Nutritional Biochemistry in the Department of Biochemistry at Memorial University of Newfoundland. Sukhinder is also the current President of the Canadian Nutrition Society. Her research focuses on the influence of maternal diets on the regulation of metabolic pathways and brain health of the next generation. Dr. Cheema’s research incorporates both basic sciences and clinical research, involving collaboration with clinicians. As a woman-identifying racialized scientist, she is dedicated to highlighting the barriers faced by historically excluded or marginalized groups working both within the field, and most impacted by nutrition‐based discrimination. She is involved in several community outreach programs in St. John's to promote healthy eating, and access to restorative justice.

Sukhinder’s parents moved with her to Newfoundland in the late 90s; she was the sole caregiver for both her parents. Her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease/dementia that progressed rapidly; he spent the last few months of his life in a long-term care facility in St. John’s, and passed away in October 2018. Sukhinder’s interest in promoting improved care for seniors stems from the negative experiences faced by her father while interacting with the long-term care system, specifically surrounding a lack of culturally competent care for people from diverse ethno-cultural backgrounds. Sukhinder continues to support her 86 year old mother, and hopes that the advancement of healthcare will mean she won’t have to face the same barriers.