Dr. Leann L. Birch, Director
Dr. Birch, Distinguished Professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Penn State University, is recognized internationally as one of the pioneers and lading experts in the study of children’s eating behavior. Her research focuses on how children acquire food preferences
and regulate the amount of food they consume during the first years of their lives. She has been published in 25 books and has written more than 140 scholarly publications.
Dr. Cynthia Bartok, Associate Director
Dr. Bartok is a registered dietitian with clinical experience in weight management and maternal-infant health. Her research interests include the regulation of food intake in children less than one year of age, particularly as it relates to breastfeeding and formula feeding. She has published on various
physiological aspects of nutrition.
Research Staff
The Center also employs multiple research associates and graduate and undergraduate students seeking advanced training in the prevention of childhood obesity.
