The ICES section asked Dr. Pontes-Arruda about his experiences with clinical nutrition internationally. Here is what he had to say.
What is your current job title and work location?
I’m currently medical affairs director for Asia-Pacific, based in Singapore.
What is your educational background?
After completing my medical studies, I spent a couple years living in Italy and doing a masters degree in Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology and a PhD in Critical Care. I’m also a Fellow of the American College of Critical Care Medicine.
How did you get involved in the field of (discipline) and clinical nutrition?
Since my early days at the university I was involved in clinical nutrition and research. Clinical nutrition was one of the primary areas of interest of my mentor and since then I’ve been working, publishing and teaching in the field of clinical nutrition and metabolism.
What specifically do you do in your current position?
I help in the design and development of clinical research.
Why did you become involved in A.S.P.E.N. and what are the benefits of being involved?
As a world leading society in the area of clinical nutrition being involved with A.S.P.E.N. is of pivotal importance to anyone interested in this field. A.S.P.E.N. is much more than the Clinical Nutrition Week, it allows me to be in continuous contact with my peers and to share experiences and best practices.
What recommendations would you give to someone just starting out in your field?
Be prepared for the changing environment as this area is an open field of research. There is always something new, something to learn, something to share.
Dr. Pontes-Arruda,
As an active member of the International Clinical Ethics Section of A.S.P.E.N., what are the differences in A.S.P.E.N.’s sessions and articles in Nutrition in Clinical Practice compared to the international organizations that you are also active in at this time?