Hi, my name is Jingming, you can call me James. I am currently a Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) student studying animal nutrition, and my research focus is on metabolomic signatures of cats.
How would you describe yourself?
First, I am a Cat Dad! My previous path was to become a Registered Dietitian. However, after adopting my first cat 3 years ago, I took a deep turn and found my passion in Animal Nutrition as I was trying to find the best options for my cat to maintain a healthy weight.
What interests or motivates you most?
The nutrition aspect of veterinary health, specifically metabolic health, interests me the most because it is at the center of health for animals. As for motivation, it all started with my own cat’s journey fighting against obesity. Originally, my cat suffered from an overweight problem 6 months after adoption. After looking through numerous research articles online, I adjusted his food options and within 6 months, my cat lost 1.5 lbs in body weight. Because of this successful case that has taken place in my own home, I strongly believe that there is huge potential in animal nutrition that can benefit the health of pet animals worldwide.
What program were you in before?
Previously, I completed my undergraduate degree at Case Western Reserve University in the United States, studying Nutritional Biochemistry. I finished my first master’s degree at the University, studying Public Health Nutrition with Dietetic Internship.
When did you become interested in nutrition?
I became interested in Nutrition after taking a Nutritional Biochemistry course by chance. I really enjoyed the level of precision of the metabolic pathways, and how food intake ultimately resulted in the structure and maintenance of the animal body.
What made you choose this graduate program, and what are you looking forward to most about it?
I chose this graduate program as a transition from Human Nutrition to Animal Nutrition. I am hoping it will serve as a path towards Veterinary Medicine so I can help pet animals achieve a better quality of health and life.
Tell us about your pets, past and present.
I adopted my first pet in 2021 at a local shelter in the United States. His name is Fudge. He is a 6-year-old domestic shorthair feline. My first impression of him was that during the day of adoption, he was the only cat that showed high affection for me and my fiancée and adopting him really changed my life. His favorite food is Tuna, Mackerel and Beef. Recently he has made a major trip with me to cross an International Border and arrive in Canada from the United States.
What is your research project?
My current research topic is analyzing the patterns of metabolic pathways among felines and understanding the role of macronutrient composition and body condition (lean, obese) on a cat’s metabolic response.