Rachael Lopez, MPH, RD, CSO
CDR Rachael Lopez, MPH, RD, CSO is a Clinical Research Dietitian at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). As a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) since 2011, CDR Lopez works primarily with surgical oncology patients participating in clinical research trials. In this role, CDR Lopez provides clinical nutrition services including but not limited to nutrition counseling/education and assistance with nutrition support regimens for patients undergoing immunotherapy, chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment, and for patients undergoing surgical resections such as total gastrectomy or esophagectomy.
CDR Lopez has authored numerous publications on topics ranging from cancer symptom management to nutrition and immunotherapy. She also serves as a peer reviewer for Oncology Dietetics Practice Group. She was recruited as a liaison between the NIH Nutrition Department and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Oncology Dietetics Practice Group, and as a member of the Cancer Support Community's National Advisory Council for the Cancer Experience Registry on Gastric Cancer. As an officer in the Public Health Service (PHS), CDR Lopez has served in many leadership positions, including Executive Secretary of the Dietitian Professional Advisory Committee, Board member for the PHS NIH Awards Committee, and Chair of the Pregnancy Subcommittee for the Commissioned Corps Women's Issues Advisory Board.
CDR Lopez received her Bachelor's from Cornell University and her Master of Public Health in Maternal and Child Health from the George Washington University. CDR Lopez has received numerous awards, including the NIH Clinical Center Director's Award, Outstanding Preceptor of the Year Award, and Young Dietitian of the Year Award.