Jack Kincaid 
Majors: MS (IGS) – Nutrition; BA – Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism
Minors: Biology and Chemistry
Q: Why did you choose this area of study?
A: Cooking with family was an important part of my childhood, and before coming to CWRU I wanted to become a registered dietitian. However, throughout my undergraduate training my interests in nutrition shifted towards the basic sciences, and I became fascinated by the biochemical aspects of metabolism and energy balance. My research at the CWRU School of Medicine on obesity-associated cancers strengthened this passion, so I changed my major from Human Nutrition to Nutritional Biochemistry, accordingly. Through the IGS Program I was able to pursue a Master of Science degree in Nutrition concurrently with my undergraduate curriculum, allowing me to take graduate-level courses focused more on precision nutrition, molecular genetics, and metabolic dysregulation.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I will be a research associate at the University of Cambridge (UK) in the lab of Sir Stephen O’Rahilly, where I will be studying obesity genetics and the molecular mechanisms underlying hunger and satiety. Following my time at Cambridge, I plan on attending medical school in the United States.
Q: Why did you choose CWRU?
A: Research was a huge part of my experience as a high school student, and the robust variety of scientists, laboratories, and experiments present across Case Western Reserve, CWRU School of Medicine, University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic, and the VA posed both a unique environment as well as a phenomenal setting for my development as a student. My original tour of CWRU was wonderful, and my first impression was that the students here are immensely collaborative and welcoming; this impression was true!
Q: What’s your favorite memory of CWRU?
A: While I myself am not a member, a number of my friends play for the Varsity Men’s Tennis Team at CWRU, and being able to attend their matches and support Case Athletics has always been a highlight of my time at CWRU. They are actually competing this week in Chattanooga, Tennessee at the NCAA Division III National Championships, and I personally think they have a great shot at bringing home the title! #GoBlue
Q: As a graduating senior, what’s one thing you’d like to share with incoming freshman?
A: Both inside and outside of the classroom: be bold. Our motto at CWRU is ‘Think Beyond The Possible’, and the students who truly thrive here are the one’s that do (or at least attempt to do) things that have never been done before. I have peers who have started businesses, obtained patents, or made scientific discoveries, and they are a representative sample of the crazy, amazing accomplishments that our students achieve.