IHN Welcomes Anthony J. Basile, PhD, MS, as 2026 Graduation Speaker
From IHN thesis student to scientist and educator, Anthony Basile returns to celebrate the next generation of nutrition leaders.
MS Alumnus, Evolutionary Biologist, and Registered Dietitian Returns to Inspire the Class of 2026
The Institute of Human Nutrition (IHN) is proud to welcome alumnus Anthony J. Basile as the 2026 IHN Graduation Speaker.
Basile, who earned his MS in Human Nutrition from IHN in 2015, is a registered dietitian nutritionist, evolutionary biologist, and associate professor of biology at SUNY Sullivan. Following his time at Columbia, he pursued doctoral training in evolutionary biology at Arizona State University, combining his interests in nutrition science and evolutionary theory to better understand human health and disease.
Exploring Nutrition Through the Lens of Evolution
“The answer to every single ‘why’ question in biology, and nutrition, requires an understanding of evolution,” Basile shared. “After completing my master’s degree in Human Nutrition at the IHN, I knew that I wanted to learn about evolutionary biology to better understand human nutrition and disease.”
Today, Basile describes himself as the only evolutionary biologist who is also a registered dietitian nutritionist — a unique interdisciplinary perspective that continues to shape his teaching and research.
From IHN Thesis Research to a Career in Science
Basile credits his IHN thesis experience with helping him realize he wanted to pursue a career in science and emphasizes the importance of collaboration in professional success. “No job is in isolation,” he said. “You’re almost always working with other people, so being able to collaborate is key to a successful career.”
Advancing Research in Nutrition and Public Health
His recent scholarly work includes research examining ultra-processed food consumption among veterans with overweight and obesity, published in Federal Practitioner (article link).
IHN is honored to welcome Basile back to campus to celebrate the Class of 2026 and share his interdisciplinary perspective on nutrition, science, and human health.
Learn More About CUIMC Graduation Speakers
To learn more about this year’s full lineup of commencement speakers across Columbia University Irving Medical Center, visit CUIMC’s “Who’s Who of This Year’s Graduation Speakers”.