The Sugar Association has hired Courtney Gaine as vice president of scientific affairs.
Gaine previously served as senior science program manager at the North American branch of the International Life Sciences Institute, a public, nonprofit scientific foundation that advances the understanding and application of science related to the nutritional quality and safety of the food supply.
Before that, she was project director of nutrition and wellness at the nonprofit organization Convergence, which works to improve the nation’s health by promoting healthful eating and lifestyles.
Gaine received a doctoral degree in nutritional sciences and biochemistry and a bachelor’s degree in dietetics from the University of Connecticut. She was also a co-captain of the UConn women’s basketball team from 1998 to 1999, the Sugar Association noted in a news release.
Gaine succeeds Charles Baker, the association's veteran executive vice president and chief science officer, who will continue working with the group as a consultant.