Biography
Dr. Padideh “Padi” Lovan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition at Florida International University and a Registered Dietitian. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Sciences and completed her Master of Science, PhD, dietetics internship, and Pediatric Nutrition certificate at Florida International University.
Dr. Lovan completed four years of postdoctoral training at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, including two years supported through an NCI-funded T32 training program. Her research aims to reduce the burden of cancer and improve outcomes across the cancer continuum by identifying multilevel determinants of cancer risk, prevention, survivorship, and long-term quality of life.
Her work examines how behavioral, psychosocial, family, social, and neighborhood environmental factors shape health behaviors and cancer-related outcomes. She is particularly interested in nutrition, physical activity, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, weight-related behaviors, and the built environment, with an emphasis on understanding how these factors interact across the life course. Dr. Lovan uses interdisciplinary and population-based approaches to inform evidence-based strategies for cancer prevention and survivorship, particularly among populations affected by social and environmental determinants.
Dr. Lovan is a member of the Bouchet Honor Society at Yale University, collaborates on interdisciplinary research initiatives, and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) as a Director-at-Large.
Lab: www.lovanlab.com
Education
- Florida International University, MS, Ph.D.
- Azad University, BS