Emily Nelson

Emily earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota in June of 2024. Following graduation, she joined the Plant Protein Innovation Center (PPIC) as a research specialist for about a year and a half before joining the Ismail lab as a master’s student in January of 2026. As a PPIC researcher, Emily assisted in various research projects focused on the evaluation of structural and nutritional characteristics of novel plant protein sources. Her master’s work focuses on combining pea, chickpea, and navy bean proteins to assess for improved structural, functional and nutritional properties. In her free time, she enjoys baking, playing Dungeons and Dragons, going to local concerts, and geocaching her way around the metro area.