Danone North America Invites Applications for Groundbreaking Fellowship in Gut Microbiome Research

Danone North America Fellowship Grant for Gut Microbiome Research

Danone North America has officially opened applications for its annual fellowship grants, signaling a continued commitment to advance research in the fields of gut microbiome, yogurt, and probiotics. This year marks the 13th consecutive granting of these awards, which will offer $25,000 each to two outstanding graduate students focusing on the crucial connections between microbiome health and overall well-being.

The gut microbiome, a complex community of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms, plays a significant role not just in digestive health but also influences various bodily functions, including immune response and even brain activity. Research suggests that preserving a healthy gut microbiome could mitigate risks for chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.

Historical data gathered over the years from previous grant recipients has uncovered fascinating insights into how probiotics affect metabolism, how early-life microbiota can offer protection against obesity, and how dietary choices inadvertently shape brain development. Their contributions are essential for fostering tangible advancements in public knowledge and health solutions.

Miguel Freitas, PhD, Vice President of Nutrition and Scientific Affairs at Danone North America, emphasizes the significance of this research. “The connection between our gut microbiome and chronic disease remains a complex puzzle yet to be fully solved. University researchers are at the forefront of these discoveries, and that is why our support for graduate students is so vital.” He further elaborates on Danone’s clear interest in this field, given their range of dairy and plant-based products aimed at enhancing gut health.

Alongside this fellowship, Danone North America is noted for its leadership in translating scientific findings into nutritious food products aimed at improving the overall health of individuals. One prominent achievement has been persuading the FDA to endorse a qualified health claim for yogurt, stating that regular consumption—defined as at least two cups a week—may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

The fellowship program is currently accepting applications until March 24, 2025. Prospective candidates must be either incoming or current graduate scholars eager to investigate how yogurt and probiotics support human health. To qualify, applicants must be U.S. residents aged 18 or older and use the scholarship funds within the 2025 academic year at an accredited U.S. institution. The application process requires submission of essay responses, recommendations from two faculty members, and proof of academic standing.

Last year's fellowship recipients included Evan Chrisler from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, who is exploring the impacts of probiotic ingestion on metabolism and immunity, and Arushana Maknojia from Baylor College of Medicine, who focuses on how gut microbes assist red blood cell production while examining the suppression of this process due to antibiotics.

The commitment to research and education is part of a broader mission at Danone North America, which has pledged $4 million toward nutrition and food security research by 2030, in light of the 2022 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health.

As an industry leader and one of the largest Certified B Corporations globally, Danone North America pursues a dual objective of fostering social and environmental value alongside its economic goals. Their brand portfolio features well-known names such as Activia®, evian®, and Silk®, and the company employs around 6,000 individuals across 15 production locations in the U.S. and Canada. This mission underscores their intent to provide health through food to as many individuals as possible.

For comprehensive details and to apply, interested applicants can find more information on the Danone North America website.