Dr. Harkness is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a PhD in Nutrition from Case Western Reserve University. She leads Global Research & Development for Health & Wellbeing and Personal Care at Church & Dwight Co., Inc., the maker of vitafusion and L’il Critters #1 gummy vitamin brands. She is a nutrition expert with over 30 years of experience in the field and is passionate about food and nutrition. Dr. Harkness specializes in health and wellness innovation, nutrition research, and communication.
Earlier in her career, Dr. Harkness was an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Nutrition at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland with a research focus on nutrients that are important in bone health. In addition, her career in science and clinical care has encompassed research and providing care for patients in adult and pediatric intensive care, adolescent medicine, gastroenterology, and surgical units.
She is currently an active member of several professional organizations, including the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American Society of Nutrition, ILSI, and Council for Responsible Nutrition.
In her free time, Dr. Harkness enjoys cooking and running. She is a long time runner and marathoner.