A core part of the NOPREN network is its work groups. This is where members collaborate on research, evaluation, and translation projects to build the evidence base for what works. NOPREN work groups are constantly evolving in order to respond to real-world research gaps and opportunities. New work groups are created as the need and interest arises, and sunsetted as the need for them resolves.
Coordination between the work groups and the rest of NOPREN allows for direct feedback loops between researchers and changemakers (decision makers, public health practitioners, community members, and local implementers). This structure allows for broad dissemination of time-sensitive policy research and evaluation.
Examples of NOPREN work group activities include:
- publishing editorials and original research
- providing thought leadership and content expertise
- developing measures and tools
- creating and disseminating nutrition policy and practice briefs
- generating other tangible resources that build capacity, knowledge, and momentum in their respective fields
NOPREN work groups are open to everyone! Even if you are a student or early career researchers or practitioners, join a work group to take advantage of networking and professional development opportunities.
If you are interested in joining a NOPREN work group, contact the associated work group fellow listed below.

Drinking Water
Contact Shannon FitzGerald

Early Childhood
Contact Maggie Wayne

Contact Crystal Diaz

Contact Ximena Perez-Velazco

Food Service Guidelines
Contact Jane Dai

Contact Alex Ross

Contact Kate Garrity
NOPREN hosts several work groups in partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Healthy Eating Research (HER) program.